Health & Life

90% of centenarians share these 2 key traits, especially the first one

People with an optimistic and positive attitude tend to live longer than others.

13 December, 2023

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The secrets to living a long life are related to many habits such as eating well and exercising regularly. However, a study has shown that people who live longer often share 2 common personality traits.

This is mentioned by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, two experts in longevity, in their book “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life,” which focuses on the activities in the “blue zones” of Okinawa, Japan, where many centenarians live.

This book explores and discusses the factors that help people live longer and healthier lives. This includes the personality of individuals, not just physical activities and daily habits.

According to a study by Yeshiva University in the US, most centenarians share similar personality traits, which can be one of the factors that contribute to their long life. This study analyzed the characteristics of nearly 250 centenarians based on their reports and stories.

1. Positive Attitude

A positive mindset, a preference for tranquility, and continuous happiness are connected to many health benefits, especially in terms of mental well-being, and can play a crucial role in helping you live longer.

Dr. Nil Barzilai, one of the authors of the study, shared with ABC News that most centenarians, according to longevity studies, tend to have a positive attitude. They are often described by those around them with words such as optimistic, easygoing, and outgoing.

The study also found that 100-year-old centenarians consider laughter an important part of daily life. Larry Janisse, a 98-year-old man, regularly engages in jokes and believes it is an important aspect of his long life. He shared on CNBC, “Laughing a lot in daily life is important.”

Other studies have also shown that pessimistic people have a 42% higher risk of early death compared to optimistic individuals. Therefore, controlling stress, increasing laughter, and adopting a positive outlook on life can be great measures to reduce stress and prolong longevity.

2. Honesty with One’s Emotions

According to the study, being honest with one’s emotions is a common trait among centenarians. This means they do not suppress their emotions and always try to express their true feelings to those around them.

Genuinely expressing emotions benefits the building of strong relationships. Social connections, especially with friends and family, are considered to be related to increasing happiness and longevity.

According to scientists, being connected with friends and family can help preserve the mental agility of the brain and prevent cognitive decline with age.

Research from Harvard University also revealed a strong correlation between happiness and close relationships such as marriage, family, friends, and social connections. Dr. Waldinger explained, “Personal connections create a mood-enhancing and emotional-stimulating effect, which are automatic mood stimulators. In contrast, loneliness gives rise to a disheartening mood.”

Creating connections with the community and maintaining meaningful relationships with others plays an important role as a source of positive emotions, contributing to a happy life and extending longevity.

Being honest with your emotions and staying connected with those around you can help you become happier, more fulfilled, and live longer. Experts García and Miralles wrote in their book, “Those who face life’s challenges with a positive mindset and have the ability to control their own emotions are getting closer to longevity.”