Before I drafted my Age Grouping post, I had started typing these thoughts, which are still valid as a separate post.

When do you get old?  

When do you realize you’re old?

Is old a number?

I look at my friends and peers and think “These people don’t seem mid-50s.”  Is this because they’re in the same age range as me?  Is it because this age range feels normal and comfortable?

Yes, some of the people around me sure look middle-aged.  There are plenty of guys that have dad hair, or dad bods, or present an oldering version of themselves.  But do they look old?

I do not understand how pictures of people a couple of generations ago look so much older at the same age.  Or, especially B&W photos where people looked ancient and they were in their 50s, in the 50s(?).  I wonder if people aged more/quicker in the past?  Is it the preservatives we eat?  (only half joking)

What does increased age—increase in a good way?

I’ve read how older people are often happier in their daily lives.  If I were still an over-achiever, I’d look for some of the studies rather than rely on my recollection of some interweb stuff.

In my recollection, those articles often show that the midpoints in life—the 30s and 40s—are so hectic in normal life activities that people don’t generally reflect on being “happy.”

I often think that those who have saved—have saved for a while—have built up some set aside money (investments) that ease daily costs or shocks.  This is from growth over time, whereas the opposite of not being able to save adds more—much more—stress knowing the future is coming at the risk of present needs.

Invest your money into Choices (Experiences/Things) that pay memory dividends.

Memory Dividends should accumulate as you age since you have been investing your assets for more years into life things and experiences.  All of those “remember when we?” questions may bring contentment and happiness.

For many, the longer you live, the older your children get and the possibility of grandchildren, and the wonder your family members bring to your life.

I often think about the phrase “you’ll never be younger or healthier than you are today” in many cases.

For that reason, do things now.  Doing things now will be easier and more enjoyable.  Think of examples such as: hiking the Grand Canyon, walking the cobblestone of Pompei, flying across the world TO Pompeii—never mind the multiple trains.  Even things like standing in lines for a while will get harder. 

And after you have completed these things, being older, I feel you’ll have a greater satisfaction of the past.  There is less of a feeling that the item/event was “normal.”  A feeling that it’s special, it’s extra, it’s a purposeful choice rather than just another activity.

As I write this, I see there is a lot of old man “back in my life” perspective.  Wow, I am oldering.  I like it.

I am now thinking that this week of activities will be back in the day at some point.  Live now.  Remember later.

*** Nothing in this article is to be construed as financial advice.  I am not a financial planner, nor do I pretend to be.  You should always consult your own professional when seeking advice. This post is not a piece of literary mastery, just a random thought I had.