There’s a stereotype that’s got some real truth behind it: the “old person” stereotype. It’s not that all old people think the same or behave the same way, but many do pick up certain habits that make them seem old. If you are in your midlife right now, it’s important not to develop these habits, or else you’ll struggle to get rid of them later in life.

1. Refusing to try new things.

The world moves fast. It’s easy to fall behind when you’re bombarded with new information and changes almost daily. People want to cling to what’s familiar instead of branching out into new directions. That’s normal because it’s comforting and safe.

However, rejecting new things without even trying them can cause you to lag behind. Trying new things is a way to connect with other people and find new hobbies or interests! As big and intimidating as it all may be, evolving with the world can open you up to new opportunities and experiences.

2. Telling the same stories.

There are moments in life that stick with us forever. Fond memories live in our hearts because they were so deeply important to us. On the other hand, bad memories cling because they can be so hard to get over and move past. Either way, these experiences stick with you.

Generally, people like to hear a story once, twice, maybe a few times. However, after a while, hearing those same stories tends to get a little old. People stop paying attention and wanting to talk because they know what’s coming. It’s okay to talk about your stories and experiences, but be mindful you aren’t telling the same stories over and over.

3. Being too negative.

As you get older, you have the opportunity to see more facets of the world. There is a lot of beauty and wonder to experience. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of terrible things, too. Humans can be awful to one another, terrible things happen, and these events stick with you.

That’s a big problem because, as Psychology Today informs us, aging people often view their lives as in decline as they get older. Of course, a pessimist can find the stormy cloud attached to every silver lining. The simple truth is that no one wants to be around negative people for long. It’s draining and difficult to be around people who never have anything good to say.

4. Talking about health problems too much.

Aging brings a host of health challenges with it. It’s just part of your body getting older, changing how it functions, and life catching up with you. Leading an unhealthy life as a young person leads to a much harder health situation later on.

It’s okay to talk about it once in a while, but one should be wary of talking about it too much. Few people want to hear about your latest doctor appointment or test every time they talk to you. Sure, talk about it if it’s something important. Just know when to dial it back.

5. Judging others’ choices.

“Back in my day…” Bluntly, no one wants to hear it. No one wants to hear how good it was decades ago because today is not decades ago. The world is a dramatically different place than it used to be in every facet of life—socially, financially, politically.

People are just trying to figure out how to find a little happiness and peace of mind for themselves today. If they ask, then sure, talk about it. But don’t volunteer your opinion on how much better life used to be to tear down others’ choices.

6. Complaining about the “kids these days”.

It’s interesting how the complaint about the younger generations not knowing as much has perpetuated throughout history. It’s a common theme for older people who are out of touch with the present to base their preconceived notions on their past.

It’s a sign that the older person isn’t interacting with younger people. The ones that do interact with younger people and today’s society form more astute observations. That’s beneficial for everyone. Not only do you have your life wisdom to draw from, but then you can apply it to the present, giving you an opportunity to build more social relationships.

7. Correcting everyone constantly.

No one likes a know-it-all. It’s exhausting to listen to someone nitpick what you’re doing, particularly if it’s inconsequential. That may be watching what someone’s doing, how they speak, or fact-checking things that don’t matter.

An easy way to get around that is just to ask, “Can I make a suggestion…” If they say no, then let it go unless it’s something that really matters. Most of the time it won’t matter all that much.

8. Not keeping up with hygiene.

There are some people who let personal grooming and hygiene slide as they age. That’s a mistake because it can affect your self-esteem and social connections. Staying well-groomed, well-dressed, and clean helps you maintain your dignity and welcomes people to be around you.

Aging people who don’t keep up with these things may find themselves without friends or connections as others pull away. Most people won’t say anything about it before they withdraw, either, because they don’t want to be rude. You may just look around one day and find yourself alone.

9. Expecting respect without giving it.

Many people won’t give you respect or deference just because you’re older. It’s something you have to give to receive for most people. The idea that older people just inherently deserve that extra level of respect is a social norm that’s died out in the past couple of generations.

Respect given is respect earned. The problem is that too many people think that respect solely means deference, while others think it means just treating others with basic human dignity. That’s an issue when you’re trying to find a middle ground.

10. Focusing too much on the news and talking heads.

The world is awash with information and misinformation. News networks nowadays are polluted with loud people giving op-eds about social situations and the way the world is going. The issue is that you can’t always tell what is good information and what is not. Trying to be informed means you can be misinformed.

Some older people fall down that rabbit hole either out of fear or a lack of social connection. All they have is to sit and listen to all this anger and fear until it starts warping their perspective. It’s important to step away from it, or listen to the other side to try and strike a balanced view. Otherwise, you can find yourself isolated from other people who don’t share those views.