How Changing Your Mind Now Could Change Your Lifespan

It's just a thought...

But it's something that deserves your attention. By changing your perceptions about aging, you can change the course of your lifespan. Research previously conducted by Levy et al. (2002) found that the median survival of individuals who maintained a more positive self-perception of aging, compared to those with less positive self-perceptions, was increased of seven and a half years. These effects remained even after controlling for factors including age, socioeconomic status, and sex and functional health.

It seems as though your beliefs about aging when you are young truly do contribute to how you age, and the time spent in old age. The trick is how you can change your internalized perceptions of the aging population if a negative stereotype exists? One answer is by exposure. By interacting with more elderly individuals you are more likely to find individuals who break the stereotypes you may have internalized. Taking the time to find more information about aging and the elderly population can give true insight beyond societies stereotypical notion of aging. In fact, a quick search into the National Seniors Games might quickly change your mind.

Perhaps it's through a little awareness, you will not only find your thoughts benefitting yourself and your life, but also the lives of the people around you.

References:
Levy, B. R., Slade, M. D., Kunkel, S. R., & Kasl, S. V. (2002) Longevity increased by positive self-perceptions of aging. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 83(2), 261-270. doi: 10.1037/0022-3514.83.2.261

You Deserve a Celebration

It's incredible...

That moment when you feel truly elated at a new accomplishment or a new experience you can't wait to begin. Yet, they seem too far and in between, don't they? Why can't we have more of those moments?

Perhaps we just have to recognize them?

It's easy to get tied down in the smallest stress, but why not get caught up in the tiniest satisfaction!? We should each take the time to enjoy those moments in life that mean something to us. A friendly face, a new acquaintance, an accomplishment, irregardless of the size! 

I spent two weeks finishing exams and the greatest moment was spent with two friends that stopped by to wish me luck. It's simple, but it can mean the world. We each have the moments. 

Take the time to celebrate life's miniature achievements. Guarenteed if you look for them, you can find inspiration around every corner.