If you’re doing even one of these things, you’re aging yourself faster than you need to.
Some people just seem to age in reverse. They’ve got that spark, that energy, that glow—and it’s not just because of good genes. More often than not, it’s because of the things they don’t do. While many of us unknowingly pick up habits that wear us down and age us faster, these folks actively steer clear of choices that speed up the clock.
The good news? You don’t need a fountain of youth—just a few smart lifestyle adjustments. If you want to maintain that youthful energy and appearance, it helps to know which habits to ditch. Here are 13 things people who age gracefully make a point to avoid. And if you’re doing even one of them, it might be time to make a change.
1. They Never Waste Time Complaining About Getting Older
Constantly grumbling about your age doesn’t just make you sound old—it reinforces a mindset that drains your energy and dims your spirit. People who age well don’t obsess over the number of candles on their birthday cake, according to Elaine Schwartz at Econlife. Instead, they treat each year as a privilege and focus on staying engaged, curious, and adaptable.
Rather than talking about what hurts or what they miss about being younger, they lean into the present. They try new things, stay social, and look for ways to make this chapter of life meaningful. Dwelling on aging accelerates it, but embracing life at every stage keeps you energized and connected.
2. They Don’t Let Stress Take Over Their Lives
Stress doesn’t just live in your head—it shows up on your face, in your posture, and in your energy levels. People who seem to defy aging understand the damage chronic stress can cause, and they make managing it a priority. Whether it’s through regular meditation, creative hobbies, time outdoors, or daily exercise, they find ways to reset and recharge.
They’ve also learned not to sweat the small stuff. Letting go of control and accepting imperfection reduces tension and keeps them flexible. Less stress means better sleep, brighter skin, and stronger immune function—all key ingredients for looking and feeling younger, Emily Swaim at Healthline shared.
3. They Don’t Neglect Their Health or Fitness
People who maintain a youthful look and vibe aren’t necessarily gym rats or marathon runners, as stated by Tina Fey of Global English Editing. But they do pay attention to their health every day. They make movement a regular part of life, whether it’s walking, biking, dancing, or stretching in the morning. They eat more whole foods than junk, stay hydrated, and listen to what their bodies need.
They also stay on top of regular checkups and take preventive health seriously. It’s not about vanity—it’s about vitality. Staying active and treating your body with care helps you maintain strength, balance, and energy as the years go by.
4. They Don’t Stay Stuck in the Same Routine Year After Year
Living the same day on repeat can dull your mind and your spirit. People who age well are often the ones trying new things—taking a painting class, exploring new cities, learning a new language, or starting a business in their 60s. They seek novelty, and that sense of discovery keeps their brains sharp and their outlook fresh.
When you challenge yourself with new experiences, you build resilience, grow your confidence, and ward off the stagnation that makes people feel older than they are. Youthfulness isn’t about being trendy—it’s about being alive and engaged in the world around you.
5. They Don’t Let Fashion Trends Decide Their Wardrobe
Chasing trends can make you feel like you’re playing catch-up in a game you’re not even interested in. People who look youthful tend to develop their own sense of style—a personal aesthetic that evolves but never tries too hard. They wear what makes them feel confident and comfortable, not what magazines or influencers tell them to.
That confidence radiates. They don’t rely on “looking young” by copying what the younger generation is doing. Instead, they dress with intention and presence, which gives off an effortless and ageless appeal. They understand that feeling good in your clothes matters more than following the crowd.
6. They Never Act Like They Know Everything
Staying curious is one of the most underrated anti-aging tools out there. People who age well don’t assume they’ve got all the answers. Instead, they ask questions, stay open to new perspectives, and are genuinely interested in learning from others—especially younger people.
This mindset keeps their brains agile and their conversations more interesting. Being a lifelong learner, whether through books, conversations, or new hobbies, helps keep you mentally young. It also prevents the kind of rigidity that makes people seem out of touch and “old” before their time.
7. They Don’t Dwell on Regrets
Holding onto regrets ages you. It weighs you down emotionally and mentally, and that often shows up physically too. People who seem young don’t pretend they’ve made no mistakes—but they don’t live in the past. They’ve learned how to let go, forgive themselves, and find lessons in the hard stuff.
Rather than replaying old failures, they stay focused on what they can do today. They understand that everyone has regrets, but staying stuck in them keeps you from living a full life now. Youthful energy comes from being hopeful and forward-looking, not stuck in yesterday’s pain.
8. They Don’t Avoid Technology
You don’t have to be a tech expert to stay youthful—but resisting all new technology can leave you feeling disconnected and outdated. People who embrace modern tools and platforms tend to feel more relevant, informed, and in touch with the world. Whether it’s texting grandkids, learning how to use a smartwatch, or streaming music, staying plugged in matters.
They use technology to enhance their lives, not take it over. By remaining open to learning new tech, they maintain confidence and stay socially connected—which is essential for mental agility and emotional well-being.
9. They Don’t Hold Onto Toxic Relationships
Nothing saps your energy like people who constantly bring you down. Those who age gracefully have strong boundaries. They know when to walk away from draining relationships, even if it’s hard. Instead, they focus on friendships and connections that nourish their spirit.
Being surrounded by people who encourage your growth, laughter, and well-being makes a massive difference in how young you feel. Toxic relationships create constant stress and tension, which wears down your mind and body over time. Letting go of them is like lifting a weight off your shoulders.
10. They Don’t Skip Out on Sleep
Sleep is your body’s built-in anti-aging system, yet it’s often the first thing people sacrifice. People who look younger than their age tend to treat sleep as a top priority. They don’t brag about surviving on five hours—they protect their rest like it’s sacred.
Quality sleep helps repair cells, reduce inflammation, balance mood, and improve cognitive function. When you’re well-rested, your skin looks better, your energy rebounds, and your immune system works more efficiently. It’s not a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone who wants to age well.
11. They Don’t Obsess Over Perfection
Perfectionism is exhausting and often rooted in fear of judgment. People who appear youthful tend to let go of the need to be flawless. They accept their wrinkles, their quirks, and their past choices, choosing instead to focus on being real and present.
That kind of self-acceptance is incredibly freeing. When you stop nitpicking yourself, your body relaxes, your smile becomes more genuine, and your energy becomes more attractive. Being at peace with who you are shows up as confidence—and confidence has a timeless glow.
12. They Don’t Forget to Laugh and Have Fun
Laughter keeps you young in every way. It relieves stress, strengthens the immune system, and builds social bonds that make life worth living. People who seem young never forget how to have fun. They don’t get too serious or caught up in negativity.
Whether it’s cracking jokes with friends, dancing in the kitchen, or finding humor in awkward moments, they make fun a part of daily life. That playfulness is contagious—and it’s one of the clearest signs of someone who hasn’t let life wear them down.
13. They Don’t Ignore Their Mental Health
A clear, calm mind is the foundation of a vibrant life. People who age well know that tending to mental health is just as important as physical health. They might journal, meditate, see a therapist, or simply set boundaries to protect their peace. Whatever their method, they invest in their emotional well-being.
Ignoring your mental health leads to burnout, anxiety, and emotional fatigue. People who stay young take breaks, reflect on their needs, and give themselves permission to feel their feelings. They’re not chasing happiness—they’re cultivating resilience, and that strength radiates from the inside out.