Reba McEntire has spent more than five decades at the top of country music — collecting Grammys, starring on TV, and inspiring generations of fans. But the country icon says it took her 70 years to learn the secret to true happiness.

“I think I’m happier now than I’ve ever been in my life,” Reba told PEOPLE with a radiant smile. “It’s amazing. It’s wonderful being 70 and getting to do what I get to do at the level I want to do it.”

It’s hard to argue with her — Reba is busier and brighter than ever. She’s currently lighting up Season 28 of The Voice as a coach, while also preparing for Season 2 of her hit NBC sitcom Happy’s Place, which became an instant fan favorite after its 2024 debut.

But even with all her success, Reba says her greatest joy comes from something much simpler — learning to live in the moment.

“The hardest lesson was to quit living for tomorrow and for yesterday,” she admitted. “That’s really hard to do, but it’s so rewarding when it clicks.”

For most of her life, Reba says she believed that being content meant settling — but now, she realizes it’s the opposite.

“I used to think being content was a no-no, because if you’re content, you’re not going to strive to continue to do better,” she said. “That’s not true. You can still grow, improve your health, and chase dreams — but you also have to enjoy every minute.”

And part of that joy comes from love. In September, Reba revealed that she’s engaged to her longtime partner, actor Rex Linn — a relationship she describes as life-changing.

“I’ve never been loved by a man like Rex Linn,” she shared warmly. “Rex is a very tender-hearted man, and I just love him with all my heart. He’s a good guy.”

When asked if retirement might be on the horizon, Reba laughed — and said she’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

“Dolly [Parton] and I talked about that when she did the Reba show. I asked her if she was going to retire, and she said, ‘Why would I? What could I do that’s more fun than this?’ I agree with her 100 percent. Maybe I’ll slow down a bit, but I don’t have plans to retire.”

After years of chasing perfection, fame, and goals, Reba has found her peace — not in slowing down, but in soaking up every precious moment.

“I love this chapter in my life,” she said with a smile. “I’m very grateful.” 

It seems that for Reba McEntire, happiness isn’t something you find — it’s something you learn to live.