The Secret of Living Longer

 

One of my mother’s favorite sayings in her later years was, “Mary, whatever you do, don’t get old.” I always responded, “Mom, if you’ll tell me how, I won’t.” She never told me, and I never learned. So now I find myself telling people, “Whatever you do, don’t get old . . .” Thanks, Mom.

No one wants to age—except for those few individuals who sport grey hair and wrinkles like trophies of experience. Ironically, in many countries, people with grey or white hair are treated with utmost respect, like wise sages and experienced elders. Not so much in America, I’m afraid. 

Did you know that the market for anti-aging products and services has grown into a global industry valued at around $261.9 billion in 2013—up from $162 billion within a five-year span? (stats from BCC Research, Wellesley, Mass.) The number of botulism treatments rose 680% from 2000 to 2012 (according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons). Even people under 35 are starting to visit dermatologists for “prejuvenation” treatments to delay the onset of wrinkles.

Prejuvenate. Rejuvenate. Maybe we need to just juvenate. You’re right—there is no such word. But, it is a natural and normal process that happens to our bodies. Instead of trying to Pre or Re the process, let’s just go with the flow and be free—Freejuvenate! 

For those who aren’t quite convinced, consider this: In a recent study, it was discovered that the most productive decades of a person’s life are the 60s and 70s because people are mentoring and duplicating themselves. When people are in their 20s and 30s, they are learning and discovering and being mentored. When they reach their 40s and 50s they are applying confidence in what they do and who they are. Ahhh, but the 60s and 70s are wonderful years. The comfort level with who you are combined with decades of experience offer a valuable blend of mentoring material that can be poured into those climbing the ladder of aging.

So, next time you study your reflection in the mirror, ruing over the increase of wrinkles and grey hair, be sure you can see the reflection of someone younger standing next to you. Invest your wealth of life in them. You’ll feel—and look—younger in no time. In fact, if you pour into the right people, your legacy will last a long, long time. 

Juvenate!