Living longer isn’t just about good genes and pure luck.

Psychology suggests that longevity is also linked to the daily habits we cultivate.

The difference lies in consistency.

Living longer is not about extreme diets or rigorous workouts, but more about incorporating small, healthy changes into our everyday routines.

Psychology shows us that those who outlive their friends tend to live by a certain set of habits.

And, believe it or not, these habits are something you can start practicing today.

So, let’s dive in and explore these 7 everyday habits of people who live longer than their friends.

Expect some surprises, because they’re not all what you might think!

1) They value their relationships

You might not expect this, but people who live longer tend to place a high value on their relationships.

Psychology consistently points to the importance of social connections in our overall health and well-being.

It’s not just about having a large number of friends, but about nurturing deep, meaningful relationships.

Research highlighted by Berkeley Executive Education underscores the importance of strong social connections, revealing that these relationships can significantly enhance well-being and even boost life expectancy, rivaling the impact of other critical health factors.

Think about it.

We’re social creatures by nature, and maintaining our social connections can help us to manage stress and live happier lives.

So if you want to add more years to your life, it may be a good idea to start by strengthening your relationships.

Try to cultivate deep connections with people who genuinely care about you, and vice versa.

2) They prioritize physical activity

From my own experience, I can tell you that staying physically active can be a game changer.

I’m not talking about running marathons or hitting the gym for hours every day.

It’s about maintaining a consistent level of activity that suits your lifestyle and abilities.

For me, that means taking a brisk walk every morning.

Psychology supports this too.

Studies have shown that people who engage in regular physical activity tend to live longer.

Moreover, they also have a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

A few years ago, I started incorporating a 30-minute walk into my daily routine.

It was challenging at first, but gradually it became a habit.

Not only did I feel more energized throughout the day, but my annual check-ups also showed improvements in my overall health.

3) They maintain a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet is another habit commonly found amongst people who live longer.

According to the America Psychologycal Asociation, the food we eat not only fuels our bodies but also impacts our mental health.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, is often associated with longevity.

This style of eating is prevalent in regions like Okinawa, Japan and Sardinia, Italy – areas known for their high number of centenarians.

Interestingly, the Okinawa region has the highest proportion of centenarians in the world.

Many attribute this remarkable longevity to their traditional diet – low in calories but high in nutrients.

It’s about finding a balanced approach to nutrition that works for you and can be maintained in the long run.

4) They practice mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness is a habit that helps people live longer, according to psychology.

Mindfulness refers to being fully present in the moment, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without being overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s happening around us.

Incorporating mindfulness into our lives can reduce stress, improve our mental health, and increase overall life satisfaction.

These benefits indirectly contribute to longer life expectancy.

Mindfulness can be practiced in many ways.

Some people prefer formal meditation or yoga sessions, while others may prefer simple daily activities like taking a walk or enjoying a meal.

The key is to find a practice that suits you and make it a part of your daily routine.

By staying mindful, you can enhance your mental well-being and potentially add more years to your life.

5) They prioritize sleep

Sleep, for me, was always something I took for granted.

Late nights and early mornings were the norm.

However, I began to realize that my lack of rest was affecting my health and overall quality of life.

Psychology backs this up.

Getting adequate sleep is closely tied to longevity.

Sleep allows our bodies to rest, rejuvenate, and restore.

It’s also crucial for our mental health and cognitive function.

When I started prioritizing a good night’s sleep, the changes were noticeable.

I found myself more alert, less prone to illness, and generally happier.

So if you’re looking to increase your lifespan, re-evaluating your sleep habits might be a good place to start.

It’s not just about quantity but also quality.

Aim for seven to eight hours of restful sleep each night. Your body will thank you.

6) They manage stress effectively

Stress is a common part of life, but how we manage it can greatly impact our longevity.

People who live longer have often developed effective stress management techniques.

According to psychology, chronic stress can lead to several health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

Therefore, finding ways to cope with stress is crucial for living a longer, healthier life.

There are numerous ways to manage stress, including regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and maintaining strong social connections.

It’s also important to find hobbies or activities that bring you joy and provide a break from the pressures of daily life.

By effectively managing stress, you’re not only improving your current quality of life but potentially adding more years to it.

7) They maintain a positive outlook

Finally, one of the most significant habits of people who live longer is maintaining a positive outlook on life.

Psychology suggests that optimism can lead to a longer lifespan.

A positive attitude helps to better manage stress, fosters resilience, and may even boost the immune system.

Positivity is not about ignoring life’s challenges or difficulties. It’s about embracing them, finding solutions, and focusing on the good in every situation.

Cultivating a positive mindset can be a game-changer when it comes to longevity. 

Final thoughts: It’s a lifestyle

The longevity of life, as psychology suggests, is not merely a game of genetics or fate.

It’s deeply intertwined with the lifestyle choices we make daily.

The habits of those who outlive their peers – valuing relationships, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, practicing mindfulness, prioritizing sleep, managing stress effectively, and maintaining a positive outlook – all contribute significantly to their extended lifespan.

These habits aren’t just about adding years to our lives, but about adding life to our years.

They remind us that living longer isn’t merely about reaching a certain age, but about the quality of life we lead along the way.

The beautiful part? These habits are all within our grasp.

The power to live longer and healthier is, quite literally, in our hands.