Hitting 50 is a milestone. It comes with its own share of blessings — like wisdom, confidence, and knowing what really matters. But it’s also a moment to face reality about what your body and mind can and can’t handle. There are some things just not worth doing anymore – staying clear about them can keep you happy, healthy & injury free. Here are 12 things you should avoid once you reach the big 50.
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Ignoring Regular Health Checkups
Your body isn’t a machine. Once you are 50, if you miss those doctor’s visits – you could miss something awful. Even if you don’t feel it, things such as high blood pressure or cholesterol can sneak up on you. Get those screenings done – it’s always better to fix small issues before they become big ones.
Competing in High-Impact Sports
Basketball leagues or marathons look like fun but your joints probably don’t think so. High-impact sports can leave you with an injury that takes a lifetime to recover. Try something less intense like hiking, swimming or even pickleball – stay active but don’t torture your body.
Starting Crash Diets
Those crash diets that will have you losing 10 pounds in a week? Hard pass. Crash Dieting can destroy your metabolism and leave you feeling exhausted. Rather, stick to moderate portions with healthy proteins, vegetables & fats. It’s the slow and steady that really wins the race when it comes to health.
Pulling All-Nighters
Remember those days when you could go all night for work or fun and still be functioning the next day? Not anymore. Sleep is your friend now. The less you get of it – the more foggy, irritable and demotivated you’ll be. Try and sleep 7–8 hours a night and revel in a relaxing bedtime routine.
Skipping Strength Training
Cardio is awesome, but if you aren’t lifting weights or exercising with resistance bands – you’re missing out. Muscle loss ramps up after 50 – strength training is the only thing you can do to stave it off. Bonus: it improves balance, bone health and even eases everyday movements.
Trying Extreme Physical Stunts
Climbing to roofs to replace shingles, skiing down double black diamonds or even taking on home renovation projects involving a lot of backbreaking labor—these can end in disaster. One wrong move — and you’re on your way to weeks (or months) of recovery.
Overloading on Work
At this point in life, burning the midnight oil isn’t just exhausting—it’s unhealthy. Pushing yourself too hard at work can lead to burnout, which takes a bigger toll as you age. Set limits, delegate tasks, and make time for yourself. Work smarter, not harder.
Neglecting Relationships
Life flies by, but once you’re 50 and you want your relationships to be strong. From your partner to your children, friends to neighbors, these friendships bring you joy and support. Make time for coffee dates, phone calls or family meals. Do not let work or other activities steal these precious moments.
Drastically Changing Your Career
Switching careers in your 50s can be exciting, but it’s not always realistic. Starting over might mean taking a pay cut or dealing with younger competitors. Instead, think about ways to transition within your field or turn a hobby into a side hustle. Baby steps can make a big difference.
Overindulging in Junk Food
Your metabolism doesn’t reset like it used to be and eating junk food in excess will quickly contribute to weight gain, energy crashes and disease. Give yourself a treat every now and then. But mainly stick to food that can fuel your body — lots of colorful vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
Ignoring New Technology
It’s easy to avoid learning new tech, but staying tech-savvy keeps you connected and makes life simpler. Whether it’s using apps to track your health, staying in touch with family on video calls or online shopping – a little effort goes a long way. Don’t let the digital world pass you by.
Living Without a Financial Plan
If you’re winging it with your money after 50, it’s time to sit down and map things out. Retirement is probably not far off, and you will feel good knowing that you are ready to save money, pay bills & invest. Consult with a financial professional or use online resources to do some research.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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