Dr. Robert Butler and his collaborators led an NIH-funded study that looked at the correlation between having a sense of purpose and longevity. His 11-year study followed healthy people between the ages of 65 and 92, and showed that those who expressed having clear goals or purpose lived longer and lived better than those who did not. This is because individuals who understand what brings them joy and happiness tend to have what we like to call the Right Outlook. They are engulfed in activities and communities that allow them to immerse themselves in a rewarding and gratifying environment.
In most blue zone cultures, this concept of purpose, this idea of “why I wake up in the morning” is an integral part of their culture. Okinawans call it ikigai and Nicoyans call it plan de vida. More importantly, we think that this strong sense of purpose may in fact reduce their chances of suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis and stroke. You may find more about the Blue Zones, those places where there are many centenarians here.
So where do you begin? How do you start to craft this credo of self-awareness and make the necessary steps toward adopting the Right Outlook? It’s not as complicated as you might think; try some of these Blue Zones® tips to adapt the Right Outlook and determine your ikigai or read full article here
1. Do an internal inventory—think about your ideals, principles, standards and morals.
2. Put your skills into action.
3. Dedicate a place in your house to display your passions, accomplishments, and the things of which you are proud.
4. Find a partner!
Thanks, Gianni, for reminding us that we need to understand what brings us joy and happiness, and then to pursue relevant activities to achieve this. I think in retirement it is especially important to have family and friends with whom to share your thoughts and experiences. And writing your stories is a good way to enjoy memories and keep occupied.
ReplyDeleteThanks Gianni- let us remember that we are blessed with our pension which keeps us empowered and worry- free.
ReplyDeleteBut, our positivity gets disrupted and a sense disappointment creeps in- i cogitate if our efforts as Unicef and the UN made a lasting impact on human lives? Everyday we read and see images of the deprived and disadvantaged, man made and natural disasters and children continue to suffer. Discrimination has in fact been exacerbated against girls, women, minorities, the poor and …,…and I am not confident if things will change much in my lifetime and hope there is a better future for my children and grandchildren.
Sree