People who live to be 100 years old all have the same two personality traits
Topics: Health
Callum Jones
Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/Dougal Waters/Getty Images/Jeremy Poland
Topics: Health
I think we'd all like to know the secret to living a long and healthy life, with the vast majority of experts telling us our lifestyle is key.
It's pretty obvious you're more likely to have a longer life if you eat the right foods and exercise appropriately, but there is much more to living to the grand age of 100.
In fact, people who live the longest share two specific personality traits, according to a 2012 study.
The intriguing study is discussed in Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, a book based on longevity and living a long life.
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The study, which was conducted by researchers at Yeshiva University in Japan, looked into the characteristics of nearly 250 people aged 100 and above.
In the end, the team concluded there are two traits that feature prominently among centenarians.
First of all, the team noticed a positive attitude by prioritising peace and happiness could well help you live a long and happy life.
We know all about exceptional physical health contributing to a longer life, but it seems as though good mental health can also help you live a longer life.
One of the study’s co-authors, Dr. Nil Barzilai, said the majority of centenarians had 'optimistic', 'easygoing' and 'extroverted' tendencies on top of their positive attitudes.
These veterans also 'consider laughter as an important part of their life', according to the study.
The study also found those who live to be 100 years old are emotionally aware - with the vast majority involved in the investigate work found to a high level of emotional awareness.
Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, who wrote the book that cited the study, said: "In other words, those who face challenges with a positive outlook and are able to manage their emotions are already well on their way toward longevity."
While a high level of centenarians displayed the trait, Barzilai confirmed to ABC News more research needs to be done as to whether it contributes to a long and healthy life.
He told the outlet: "We still need to find out what the cause-and-effect relationship is. We don’t know if we can change longevity by having a positive attitude, or if achieving longevity causes a positive attitude."
So, there you have it. If you've these two personality traits, then you may be living to the grand age of 100.