To Inspire:

In a recent LinkedIn post, Harvard Professor and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Arthur Brooks shared the 7 factors that most reliably predict happiness and health as we age:

1. Don’t smoke
2. Limit alcohol
3. Eat well
4. Exercise regulary
5. Keep learning and staying mentally curious
6. Have a practiced way to deal with suffering
7. Love deeply

I like these – they’re straight forward though not easy to do consistently. I’m drawn to numbers six and seven as they’re clearly different from the first five. They demand an inner conversion of our hearts, not just the adoption of external habits as with the first five.

I would add two more. First, pursue a faith in God. From a personal standpoint I can share that my Christian faith and personal relationship with Christ has become the single greatest source of joy for me and joy is that intangible quality that may be the most important health and longevity factor of all!

And second, build strong community. We are made for communion – not just with God, but with one another. Having a community of family and friends that you invest in and who invest in you is such a source of strength, joy, and purpose. Like many of you, I’m blessed with wonderful relationships in my life – a growing community of people that I love and cherish.

Perhaps reflect on the seven factors Dr. Brooks has provided and the two I’ve added. What would you add? Make your own list and commit to following them throughout this year. If so, I have no doubt your life will change for the better – both now and in the years to come.

Life – what a gift. Live with greatness…. you’re made for it!

Written by Matt Palmer, Partner & Co-Founder