Scientific studies have proven something exciting and worthy of everyone’s attention: People can literally live about seven years longer if they would simply refuse to “buy in” to the stereotypical nonsense that tells them that getting older has to mean life is over. According to studies performed by Becca Levy at Yale University’s School for Public Health, a pervasive (even subconscious) negative stereotype regarding aging has a demonstrable effect on long-term health outcomes. In one study, participants were separated into two groups. One group was exposed to subliminal, positive messages about aging, while the other group was not. The results were incredible: participants in the second group—people who were otherwise equal on health, educational, and socioeconomic factors—showed greater declines in a variety of areas than their peers who were in the first group. There were physiological symptoms, like shakier hands and poorer memory retention, higher rates of cardiac disease, and more difficulty recovering from disability. But there were also behavioral symptoms like a greater propensity to eat in an unhealthy way, a more sedentary lifestyle, and an unwillingness to follow dosage instructions for age-related prescription medications. The net result? A median difference in survival rate of 7.5 years. That’s staggering!
Change the perception
Tune out the negative. Focus on the positive. Instead of using the word “old,” substitute “wise,” “mature,” “seasoned,” and “experienced.” Think about it: elders are typically revered for their accumulation of knowledge and experience. Even those who haven’t accomplished much of special merit exhibit a time-tested combination of cultivated skills and experiential wisdom that rightly inspires humility in younger people (who do well to capitalize on their insights). So, almost by default, age demands a modicum of respect.
Learn to approach the later years with optimism and determination, recognizing that no one ever has to lose their cultural edge. After all, people are living longer, healthier lives every day, all over the world. Think about it: a huge part of why aging seems to come upon people suddenly and overwhelmingly is because they don’t take steps now to give them the best possible chance of living long, healthy, and meaningful lives.
Consider the aging process with a healthy mixture of acceptance and enthusiasm. This mind shift leads people to live happier (and often longer) lives. Known as the chronologically gifted, these people regard their age as a gift, the seal of a lifelong journey for which they are profoundly grateful. It’s a journey that began at birth and one that they hope to continue through a personal legacy that immortalizes them in the memories of others. Facing their own mortality, the chronologically gifted are determined to live with significance, passion, and purpose in the here and now.
10 principles of the chronologically gifted
What you are to be, you are now becoming. Follow these 10 principles to live happier, healthier, more fulfilled lives.
Remember, becoming chronologically gifted is an individual decision and choice. For those who are ready, print these principles out. Tape them to the refrigerator—and get busy living. You won’t be sorry. You can do it!
About the Author:
Dr. Erica Miller holds her Ph.D. in clinical psychology and has written extensively on topics of positive psychology, longevity, overcoming challenges, and living life to its fullest. Her most recent book, “Chronologically Gifted: Aging with Gusto,” made her an international bestselling author. In addition to having a private practice, Dr. Miller was the founder and executive director of Miller Psychological Centers, a chain of mental health clinics throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. Currently, in addition to public speaking, she is CEO of a family real estate business in Austin, Texas. For more information, please call 805 496-8850 or visit www.drericamiller.com