A decades-long study by psychologists found positive changes in personality over time.
The passage of time can be seen as a source of anxiety. However, growing old is not just an accumulation of years, it is also the opportunity to grow in serenity and understanding. Recent discoveries invite us to change our perspective on aging and to value the resources it provides to cope with difficulties.
The wisdom of “generativity”
“Generativity” refers to the ability to look towards future generations, to transmit values and to contribute to the future in a constructive way. Over time, this quality asserts itself, helping to put personal problems into perspective by placing them in a broader context.
It is through experience that an older person gives sound advice or offers empathetic support. This ability to go beyond appearances and seek global solutions brings many feelings of personal satisfaction and usefulness, even in the face of difficult trials.
Resilience: a treasure acquired with age
Aging also comes with a better ability to overcome adversity. After age 60, better self-control and satisfaction with one’s past life develop. This integrity allows you to draw on your experiences to find unsuspected strengths.
Faced with losses or failures, age helps us learn lessons and rebuild ourselves with stronger emotional solidity. This resilience, resulting from learning from the past, is a powerful tool for putting the challenges of the present into perspective.
A decrease in negative emotions with age
One of the striking findings of the study is also the gradual decline in feelings of hopelessness from the age of 50. This natural evolution is linked to better management of inner conflicts and a more peaceful vision of life.
While feelings like frustration or anxiety may dominate at a young age, the years often provide an opportunity to step back and put challenges into a more holistic perspective. A disappointment or conflict can no longer be seen as an impasse, but as an opportunity for growth.
Learn more: Newton, Nicky & J. Stewart, Abigail & Vandewater, Elizabeth. (2019). “Age is opportunity”: Women’s personality trajectories from mid- to later-life. Journal of Research in Personality. 80. 10.1016/j.jrp.2019.04.005.
