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There are three major factors that affect how we age: Genes, Lifestyle and Attitude. Think of them as three large circles on a chart which intersect in the middle.
We are born with certain genes. We can't change them (although scientists are working on this) but the lifestyle we live we will affect how our genes express themselves. This is called, "epigenetics," and our lifestyle affects gene expression in both positive and negative ways.
If you have "good genes" for longevity, you can live an unhealthy lifestyle and still live to a ripe old age. But scientists at The Buck Institute for Research on Aging estimate that only 7% of us have these genes. For the 93% of the rest of us, our LIFESTYLE will affect to a much greater degree both our healthspan (how long we stay in good health) and our lifespan. This is represented on the chart where the "genes" and the "lifestyle" circles intersect.
Attitude also affects lifestyle and gene expression. For example, people with a positive attitude are more likeable so tend to have more friends, and socialization is an important factor in healthy living. A negative attitude increases stress, and this can affect us physically in bad ways by elevating our cortisol levels which can lead to compromised immune function and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases. Prolonged negative stress can also eventually compromise brain function. A positive attitude will reverse those trends and change this vicious circle into a virtuous one. So, on the chart, attitude overlaps and influences both gene expression and lifestyle.
It is obvious that, if we know what to do, we can "change our evil ways," replace bad habits with good ones, and live a healthier lifestyle. How to do this is explained by scientific research from the Buck Institute and other sources as detailed in the book.
What is NOT obvious is that we can do the same for how we think! Optimism is also a choice we can make. But just like we can't live a healthier lifestyle without knowing what to do, we can't change HOW we think without knowing first WHY we currently think the way we do. Then we can act to change it.
Phycologists and philosophers call this "thinking about thinking." The term for this is "metacognition." In "Maintaining Optimism While Aging," you will examine and dissect your "self-explanatory style," which is how you explain TO YOURSELF good and bad things that happen to you. Through this process, you will be able to measure your present level of optimism and then take specific steps to increase it.
This type of serious introspection is not easy. It takes time and effort. But it will be well worth it because, with a healthier lifestyle and a more positive attitude, you will increase your probability of living a longer, healthier and happier life. The sooner you start, the quicker you'll get there!
I hope you'll give it a try.
And, if you think your friends might be interested in this book, please refer them to my website, www.johntrauth.com. The book also makes a good gift for certain birthdays, retirement parties, or anyone looking to improve, extend and enjoy their later years.
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