Prime Time with Bec Wilson How Not to Become a Grumpy Old Bugger; With Geoff Hutchison
Aug 13, 2025
Geoff Hutchison, a former ABC broadcaster and author, discusses his book on navigating aging and staying positive. He dives into the roots of grumpiness, from identity loss after work to the impact of humor. Sharing insights on self-awareness, he highlights how small irritations can accumulate and affect one's outlook. Geoff emphasizes the importance of self-care, active friendships, and staying curious. With practical tips, he encourages embracing change and enjoying life’s small pleasures, offering a light yet impactful approach to living better in later years.
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Personal Roots Of The Book
- Geoff wrote the book partly because of a memory of asking his father if he was happy and getting a sad answer.
- He also drew on years of talkback radio where older men frequently voiced persistent grievances.
Negativity Becomes Self-Fulfilling
- 'Grumpy old bugger' combines attitude, behaviour and mindset that becomes self-reinforcing.
- Men curate a "museum of dickheadedness" that confirms and deepens their negativity.
See Your GP Honestly
- Go to your GP honestly and stop lying about symptoms or habits like alcohol use.
- Treat lifestyle tweaks as manageable, not as total deprivation, and act before problems escalate.
