Just as labeling yourself 'fat' undermines your self-esteem, calling yourself 'old' can have an equally damaging impact on your well-being.
Referring to yourself as old breeds body dissatisfaction, which heightens the risk of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. As experts in psychology and body image note, our internal dialogue shapes our reality.
Why do we do it?
In a youth-obsessed culture, spotting a new wrinkle or gray hair often prompts us to utter 'I'm getting old.' It's a common reflex, but one worth challenging.
Not inherently bad, but...
The phrase isn't always harmful on its own. The issue arises when it subtly implies youth is superior. Next time you say it, pause and reframe: affirm your vitality instead.
A widespread issue
Women aged 46 and older are most prone to this habit, yet strikingly, nearly half of women aged 18-29 admit to occasionally calling themselves old. It affects all ages.
The challenge
Commit to ditching 'old' from your vocabulary. It boosts your self-image, though it's tough—aging is inevitable, making complaints tempting. We admit we've slipped too, but we're stopping now.
Do you ever call yourself old?
