You Can’t Take It with You

BY JOSH KAMPEL

People have been obsessed with the idea of the “Fountain of Youth” for centuries. The search for this mythical destination has been a part of folklore for thousands of years and has captured the imagination of people throughout history. The obsession is rooted in the human desire for eternal youth and longevity.

While there might not be a magical spring that can restore youth and vitality, advances in medical science and technology have made it possible for people to live longer and in many cases, healthier lives. However, while life expectancy has increased globally, many people are not necessarily living better.

Conversations have shifted from lifespan to healthspan, which looks at quality not just length of life. It captures the amount of time a person lives in good health, free from chronic illnesses and disabilities. This issue of Worth contemplates how we should be thinking about both longevity and healthspan to live a long and fulfilling life, both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, there is no single solution to extend one’s length and quality of life. While there are companies looking to develop commercial solutions that leverage pharmaceuticals or cellular therapies, we do know that there are lifestyle choices and practices that can help us live longer, more productive lives.

From better eating habits to stress management, and getting more sleep, many of us know what we should be doing, but find it difficult to change our behavior. Many of us work in high-stress environments and aren’t always able to make the best choices for our own mental and physical health.

As we know, stress is linked to a wide range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, depression, and anxiety. Finding ways to manage stress in your life should be a priority.

Getting enough sleep can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve mental health. People who get adequate sleep are more productive, have better cognitive function, and are less likely to experience depression and anxiety.

Social connections have also been linked to a longer life, better mental health, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Whether it’s spending time with family and friends or participating in community activities, social connections are essential for both longevity and healthspan.

If you take anything away from this issue, I hope it is that you can make conscious choices that will have a positive impact on your length and quality of life. Many of us emphasize financial success; while that is important, we need to learn how to balance our priorities.

You truly can’t take it with you, so make sure you invest in yourself and focus on achieving a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.

— Josh Kampel CEO, CLARIM MEDIA josh.kampel@worth.com