Quality time means different things to us at different ages. This is what quality time looks like in my 50s and how it’s changed from my younger years. Solitude has become a valuable part of this time. If you’ve been wondering what really counts as quality time these days, here’s what I’ve discovered works for me.
What makes you happy? What are the small moments that resonate?
What Quality Time Actually Looks Like After 50
Table of Contents
My Personal Sanctuary
For me, here in Japan on my days off – depending on my sleep, quality time arrives before dawn. Ideally, around 4 a.m. I rise while the world still sleeps, lace up my trainers, and walk to the neighborhood 7-Eleven.
It’s a short journey, just enough to wake the mind and muscles. I gather a few groceries for the day, a coffee, and something sweet but not too heavy.
Back home, I start with a prayer for guidance, turn on the computer, and launch that first app to keep that day streak going. From then on, with an open mind and honestly hoping for divine inspiration, it’s just me with my computer, sipping slowly, and letting thoughts flow onto the screen.
Unhurried, undisturbed, and enjoying a quiet that feels like peace. This is my moment of happiness. It’s simple, perhaps peculiar, but genuinely mine. Those quality moments are some of my building blocks for daily balance in my 50s.
How Values Change
It’s interesting how our definition of quality time evolves, isn’t it?
There was a time when it was a lot louder: Evenings out, thumping music, riding motorbikes, or volunteer driving friends around.
Now, it’s this simple routine: A pre-sunrise walk, something light but sweet, and a screen that asks nothing of me. I’m not saying this change is better, simply that it’s what resonates now.
Actually, as I write this, I notice how alone time is a big part of quality time nowadays. Not always, but it definitely needs to be in the balance.
To Each Their Own
Have you noticed how some people light up when discussing their simple pleasures?
It’s interesting to ask them about their quality time, hobbies, etc., and finding out what makes them tick.
One of my older students, with more years under his belt than I have, practically lives at the local library. He loves reading about history. If you think about it, his current way of enjoying the present moment is by trying to understand the past.
Then there’s a woman completely devoted to her plants. She grows them with a real passion, sharing photos in our group English lesson at every opportunity, as if the plants are her kids. She’s good though, and she would probably win a prize or two if she entered a flower show.
Another lady regularly walks her dog, more so since her husband retired. Leash in hand, no destination in mind, and just balancing solitude with exercise.
Different expressions, same basic thing: these moments are theirs alone.
Taking Time Out
Today’s world tries to distract us: Schedules, scrolling, notifications, junk mail, and keeping busy. It’s easy to lose sight of the small stuff that helps to keep us going.
The idea of quality time is different for everyone. For most of us, it’s what remains meaningful when we get time to ourselves. It gives us time to balance the roles we play too, allows us to get back to basics, and hopefully gives us time to think less and let go of stress.
Perhaps it’s a solitary morning coffee ritual like mine, or losing yourself in a book, happy to be indoors while rain taps against your window. Maybe it’s sharing a drink with a friend, laughing about nothing in particular, or working in your garden until sunset.
Don’t we all have something that grounds us and reminds us of who we really are?
An Invitation to Share
I’m no expert on happiness. I’m just someone who’s experienced enough ups and downs to wonder: how do we get back to being a child again? How can we play like a kid, instead of this demanding role of being the adult?
For me, that early morning walk serves as an anchor – starting the day quietly with more leisure and focus. It’s not elaborate, it’s not extravagant, and it’s nothing to brag about online. However, it belongs to me, keeps me balanced, and that’s what I need.
So, how do you enjoy your time?
What’s Your Quality Time?
We rarely discuss these private and precious times.
Yet occasionally, you glimpse someone completely in their zone, like a child with a kite or new bike, or an elderly person fishing peacefully – and you recognize it immediately: That’s their quality time, right there and then.
Life is too short to neglect these moments. All work and no play, right?
What does quality time actually look like for you these days?
What quality moments do you recommend?
When it comes to the everyday stuff that keeps you grounded, what does quality time look like for you these days and at your age?
Share your thoughts below. I respond to every comment, and your experience often helps others more than mine does.
