The Superpowers of Aging

Let’s be real. There are a lot of things that suck about aging. Your body may not be as attractive as it once was (at least by some unreasonable societal standards), and it certainly doesn’t function as it used to. Those things that you used to love no longer bring you the same satisfaction.

Taco Tuesday used to give you joy, but now you get heartburn just smelling the salsa. There’s no denying that there are a lot of negative aspects of aging, but don’t forget about the wonderful superpowers that come along with it, too.

Superpowers of Aging

Superstrong Intuition

As you age, your gut may no longer be able to handle a late-night snack, but that “gut feeling” you get when something seems “off” gets sharper with age. Why? As you get older, you learn how to read people and situations quickly and avoid mistakes that younger folks may not see coming.

You see, you’ve developed a keen sense for noticing patterns in behavior and have an experienced eye for observation. So, while you may not be able to read the fine print on your medicine bottle, you can read people with razor-sharp accuracy.

The No-Nonsense Shield

Older people tend to lose their desire or obligation to impress people or deal with drama. With age comes the unique and wonderful ability to see right through nonsense and the ability to not waste time on things that don’t matter.

Petty arguments fade, and you learn to use that No Nonsense Shield to ward off unnecessary fuss and distractions. As you age, you may become more direct, practical, and focused on what matters. Valuing clarity instead of drama is quite the superpower. Warning: It may also give you the title of “grumpy” by some younger folks.

The Helmet of Wisdom

Younger people may overlook your advice now, but eventually they will realize that with age comes wisdom. And when that clarity hits, they will be amazed at your insights. Dropping life-tested wisdom at just the right moment can completely shift a conversation, change someone’s perspective, and maybe even change their life. Dust off that helmet and set it atop your greying head because you have many pearls of wisdom to share with the next generation.

The Invisibility Cloak

When someone asks the age-old question, “What superpower would you like to have?” at least one person in the conversation is bound to say “invisibility.” Why? Because wouldn’t it be awesome to wander around the world undetected? Well, age does give you a certain degree of anonymity.

Young people with their trendy fashion and youthful good looks often turn heads and demand attention. That attention-seeking or attention-grabbing ability may fade with age. But there’s good news. People may overlook you as you get older, but that also means that there is less pressure to prove yourself.

This invisibility cloak allows you to observe, strategize, and act in stealth mode and without interference. That is a great superpower to use to your advantage in negotiations, social situations, or even job searches. You just may surprise people with your hidden insights and abilities. And they never even saw you coming!

The Freedom Key

When you’re younger, you might spend a great deal of time (and money) chasing trends and keeping up with the Joneses. But with age comes this incredible gift–the ability to not give two figs! Walking out of the house with a stain on your shirt? Oh well! “Saving it for later,” you respond. Enjoy listening to the music from your era a little too loud? Well, people will just assume you’re hard of hearing.

Society often stops expecting older adults to “keep up” with certain trends in fashion, tech, and lifestyles, which gives you the excuse–or shall we say, freedom–to do exactly what makes you happy. You get to choose your own pace, set your own rules, and focus on what truly fulfills you without external pressure. And the best part, no one dares challenge or disrespect that “sweet little old person.”

The Gratitude Glasses

You may have bifocals now, but with age, you are also given the Gratitude Glasses. Aging teaches you to see beauty in the little things. You may appreciate the sunrise and a quiet cup of coffee with more passion than you did in your youth.

The laughter of a loved one and the simple joys in life are often overlooked by younger people, but with age you begin to see the beauty of simplicity and the magic of the mundane. God loves a grateful spirit, and age gives you the ability to appreciate life just a little bit more.

The Time Machine

So, maybe a time machine isn’t a superpower, but it sure would be neat to have! But your ability to see things from the perspective of the past and the future gives you a little bit of a time-traveling-superhero power. As you age, you gain this unique perspective that allows you to understand the cycles of life, the ups and downs, and the seasons of growth and famine.

Most importantly, you know that no matter how tough things get, God has you in His loving hands. With this proven knowledge, you’re less likely to panic or overreact when life’s unavoidable challenges arise.

You’ve been there and seen it all before, and you know how to weather the storm, and you know the One who calms it. Though you may not be able to travel to the future, you can look at it with the confidence of experience, knowing that God is faithful.

The Patience Potion

Remember when waiting in line felt like torture? You had many other “important” things to do. And slow drivers? They may have sent you into a fit of rage. But now, you’ve unlocked the ability to wait calmly because you know that everything will happen in its own time.

Besides, you’ve mastered your DVR, so you’re not even missing your favorite show. You don’t sweat the small stuff anymore because you know that frustration and impatience are just a waste of energy. Whether you’re dealing with the grandkids, customer service, or another one of life’s unexpected detours, you have the patience of a saint. Because face it, you wouldn’t be the age you are if you hadn’t learned a bit of patience.

Energy Efficiency Mode

Some people may think that you’ve slowed down because you’re tired, but the truth is, you’ve mastered the art of using your energy wisely. Younger people tend to burn themselves out trying to do it all, but you? You know when to engage, interject, and push yourself and when to simply step back.

You choose your battles and projects carefully and don’t waste time on pointless conflict or busy work. No more pointless and exhausting social obligations. You work smarter, not harder. You prioritize the most important things in your life and leave the pointless things in the dust. And the beautiful thing is that you still get everything that’s necessary done and with a whole lot less stress.

Superhero Mode

Stop dwelling on your arthritis and those “dang neighbor kids” and focus on all the blessings that have come from a life well-lived. You may not have your youth, but you have something much more valuable: wisdom and a mature perspective.

God didn’t create you for just one season in your life. You have a purpose until you breathe your last breath. If you’re struggling with aging or need someone to show you how to harness your own superpowers, consider talking with a professional therapist.

They can help you unlock all the wonderful attributes that have come with age. Now, put on your cape and enjoy your superhero era because the best part of your life may be just ahead.