The Secret to a Great Social Life After 60

This past weekend, Jean and I joined some friends for a “free” Home By Dark concert in the park sponsored by the City of Alpharetta. We arrived about an hour early, claimed a spot near the front, unfolded our chairs, and settled in for an evening of good food, great conversation, and even better company.

By the time the music started at 7:30, we were already having a wonderful time. The concert itself was fantastic, but what made the evening special was the laughter, fellowship, and memories we shared along the way.

Sometimes the best part of an event isn't just what happens on stage—it's the people sitting beside you.

People often ask how Jean and I manage to keep such a busy social calendar. The truth is, at 71, it's not really about how much we do. It's about choosing the right things. I've discovered that after 60, the things on your calendar can either become treasured memories or experiences you'd rather forget.

You know what I mean. Some events leave you laughing, energized, and telling stories about them for weeks. Others leave you exhausted, emotionally drained, and wondering why you ever agreed to go in the first place.

Over the years, I've developed two simple guidelines that help me fill my calendar with more memory-making moments and fewer regrets.

First: Never Decide When You're Too Tired—or Too Energized

When I'm tired, especially late in the evening, my answer to almost everything is "No." If I listened to that version of myself all the time, I'd miss some of the best experiences of this season of life.

On the other hand, when I wake up feeling great in the morning, I'm convinced I can do anything. That's when I can get myself into trouble. I start saying yes to everything and later discover my enthusiasm outpaced my energy.

The sweet spot is somewhere in the middle—when you're thinking clearly and honestly about what your mind, body, and schedule can handle.

Second: Ask, "Will This Make a Good Story?"

Before I commit to an event, I often ask myself, "Will this spark a good conversation later?"

Not every activity has to be exciting, but some experiences naturally create memories worth sharing.

For example, sitting at home watching another Poirot rerun may be enjoyable, but it usually doesn't create much conversation the next day.

Going to a concert where songwriters tell the stories behind the songs they wrote? That's the kind of experience that stays with you. It's interesting, memorable, and gives you something meaningful to talk about with family and friends.

As I get older, I'm learning that a great social calendar isn't measured by how full it is. It's measured by how many moments on it become memories.

Choose wisely. Leave room to enjoy life. Say yes to things that make you come alive, but don't overbook yourself trying to prove you still can.

After all, the goal isn't simply staying busy.

It's making sure the days we're given are worth remembering.

Until next time, don't just count the days. Make the days count. Take the Last Best Bite of life.