10 Inspiring Quotes That Will Make You Realize Growing Old Is AWESOME

Growing old can be scary. The other day, I read an article that said that 65 years old is the age when most people start thinking about retirement and I had an existential crisis over it, even though I’m only in my 20s and still relatively new to the workforce.

Growing old means having to look at yourself a little differently.

As you grow up, you move to new phases in your life —  some good, some bad, but all important to the person you are.

Obviously, you don’t have the same dreams and aspirations you did when you were a kid (or maybe you do), and it’s probably safe to say that you have changed over the years.

Maybe you don’t talk to the same people you did 5, 10, or 15 years ago.

Maybe you told yourself that you would never be the type of person to like “fill in the blank here” and now you’re an avid Cross-Fitter or you love sampling craft beers on the weekend.

But changing —  just like growing older —  is part of life. You learn to love the parts of yourself that you didn’t when you were younger, and you become more confident in the person you are today.

And the best part about experiencing these changes in life is that you don’t have to wait until you’re planning your retirement — people change all the time.

I know the cliché about growing older (the one that says you’re getting better with age like a fine wine) is a little cheesy, but it really is true.

Your best days are ahead of you. And yes, it’s going to be a little scary, or stressful, or sad, but no matter how old you are, the best is yet to come. (Ask almost any older person and they can tell you in their own words.)

If you're still a little unsure, these inspiring quotes about what it means to grow older should definitely help you stop dreading your next birthday...

If you’re looking for a little inspiration, we’ve got the best quotes to share and savor. For quotes from the most inspiring celebs, activists, and poets, look no further! You might even find the quote that motivates the best parts of your life (and love!) forever.

1On growing up.

“Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” — Walt Disney

2On finding the beauty in everything.

“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” — Franz Kafka

3On remaining a child.

“Do not grow old, no matter how long you live. Never cease to stand like curious children before the great mystery into which we were born.” — Albert Einstein

4On always looking towards the future.

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” — Les Brown

5On not caring about your age.

“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.” — Mark Twain

6On embracing age.

“Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied by many.”

7On courage.

“It takes a lot of courage to grow up and become who you really are.” — e.e. cummings

8On grey hair.

“Those aren't grey hairs, they are strands of glitter growing out of my head.”

9On aging.

“Aging is out of your control. How you handle it, though, is in your hands.” — Diane von Furstenberg

10On aging gracefully.

“The trick is to age honestly and gracefully, and make it look great so that everyone looks forward to it.” — Emma Thompson