It is a rainy Monday after the start of the new year as I write this post. A polar vortex has come to stay for a couple of weeks and the snow has just missed us by a neighboring county. I was looking for inspiration this morning and came across an article about Babette Hughes. She is 101 and says she is currently living the best years of her life. She is an author and recently published her ninth book. Below are eight nuggets of wisdom she has to offer on why the best is yet to come no matter if the new year is not bringing in “new me” vibes, or what the culture says about aging.

1. Never believe you’re done.
   
   Cultural beliefs often mislead us into thinking life is over at a certain age, which can deeply affect our self-perception. This mindset is harmful, as it overlooks the potential for discovering new talents or gifts at any stage of life. Life is a continuous journey of growth and self-discovery, regardless of age. In his book Life in Three Dimensions, Shigehiro Oishi suggests that a good life prioritizes curiosity, exploration, and a variety of experiences that help us grow as people.
   
   
2. Connect with friends of all ages.
   
   Building friendships across generations fosters wisdom, energy, and mutual learning. Younger and older friends offer unique perspectives, and these relationships highlight how each stage of life has valuable lessons to share. Together, these connections enrich our understanding of the world and ourselves.
   
   
3. Embrace the small joys in life.
   
   Happiness isn’t found at the mountaintop but in life’s small, everyday pleasures. Our culture often glorifies grand achievements, but true contentment comes from appreciating the little moments that bring us joy and fulfillment. Discover what lights you up. Take time to understand yourself and what genuinely makes you happy. It could be as simple as reading, spending time with loved ones, sharing a meaningful conversation, or even just a thoughtful gesture. These small, authentic experiences can have a powerful impact on your day.
   
   
4. Be brave enough to embrace authenticity.
   
   True courage lies in honestly examining yourself, understanding who you are, and showing up authentically in the world. It may not always be easy, but it brings energy, confidence, and deeper connections with others. Authenticity strengthens relationships. While being genuine might involve uncomfortable moments, like disagreeing with someone, it ultimately builds stronger and more meaningful relationships. Learning to be authentic takes effort, but the rewards are well worth it.
   
   
5. Pursue what you love.
   
   Engaging in activities you’re passionate about, like writing, painting, or dancing, can bring joy, confidence, and a sense of balance. Creative work feels almost magical because it taps into the deepest parts of your soul and expresses your authentic self. The fulfillment from creative pursuits often comes from accessing parts of yourself that are usually hidden or unconscious. 
   
   
6. Stay active and prioritize rest. 
   
   Regular physical activity is essential for strength and longevity, even as we age. For example, consistent exercise has helped more and more older folks stay strong at even 100+ and can help save lives during a health crisis. Equally important is giving your brain the rest it needs to recharge and rejuvenate. Balancing movement with proper rest is key to overall well-being.
   

7. Overcome negative thinking with optimism. 
   
   While some people are naturally more optimistic or pessimistic, negative thinking can be a powerful barrier to well-being. Life’s challenges make it harder to stay positive, but it’s important to acknowledge the good and actively choose optimism and gratitude, even in difficult times.
   

8. Follow what you know is right for you. 
   
   Longevity and happiness often come down to simple, well-researched principles: exercise, abalanced diet, healthy relationships, self-understanding, and a fulfilling career. The challenge, however, lies not in knowing these things but in actually putting them into practice, which is often harder than we think, despite the clear evidence supporting their importance. 
   

Embracing these simple truths can help us live more intentionally and joyfully, no matter where we are in life. Here’s to finding wisdom in the small moments and the people around us. Hopefully your 2025 is off to an intentional start!