How to live better longer

Lots of data is emerging about factors that contribute to our longevity. Turns out many of them are also things that contribute to our well being.

But, living long and well doesn’t mean you’ll be cheerful the whole time.

In one report,The Longevity Project, psychologists Howard Friedman and Leslie Martin looked at a study that began with elementary school kids back in 1921, and found cheerfulness as a child, actually led to a shorter life span. Those cheerful folk tended to take more risks with their health.

Persistence though, had some big payoffs and those who persevered toward accomplishment despite stress and struggle usually lived longer than those who took an easier road. People who worked hard and were productive throughout their lives also lived longer.

Another study of subjective research – which results from answers given from study participants about how they think about their lives rather than hard scientific data – indicates our attitudes and beliefs also play a critical role in how long we live.

The happiest and healthiest centenarians reported being: Open to new things, as well as, responsible and conscientious.

Being open to a variety of experiences helps you to adapt to challenges throughout your life, Bigwigs theorize. While a more rational, responsible approach to life meant people were more likely to make better healthcare choices and fewer impulsive decisions.

Optimism and social connection also come up frequently on those -how-to-live-longer-and-better lists. I’ll tell you more about those common longevity denominators in Wednesday’s post.

By the way, optimism and social connection are also two of the factors of resilience that I talk about in Reframe the Tough Times, my new on-line class at The Daily Om which shows you have to move through change and challenge with ease. Join us: http://www.dailyom.com/cgi-bin/courses/courseoverview.cgi?cid=224&aff=

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