Ageless Energy: Simple Habits from Centenarians to Keep Your Body and Mind Young

19. Cultivate a 'Good Enough' Mindset

One subtle source of longevity is the ability to shed perfectionism, adopting a "good enough" mindset toward many of life's tasks. Centenarians often demonstrate a gentle acceptance of imperfection in their homes, schedules, and achievements. This practice directly reduces the chronic, low-level stress caused by striving for flawless outcomes, which frees up mental and physical energy. Learning to stop a task at 80% completion or gently delegating without guilt is a powerful act of self-preservation that reserves your most precious resources for true priorities: health and connection.

20. Secure Financial Peace (Control Over Worry)

While money doesn't guarantee longevity, financial security—or at least having control over the worry about money—is strongly correlated with better health outcomes in later life. Centenarians minimize financial stress by living within their means, maintaining simple needs, and ensuring basic security. The habit is proactive planning: reducing debt, automating savings, and building a simple, understandable budget. This peace of mind significantly reduces chronic cortisol levels, allowing the body's resources to focus on healing and vitality instead of constant stress response.