The Future Me by John Beilenson
Stay Positive
Dr. George E. Vaillant, author of Aging Well, a book that chronicles three studies of 824 people followed from their teens into their 80s, found that the capacity for gratitude was one of the foundations of successful aging. The ability to see the glass halffull rather than half empty enables us to count our blessings and make the most of what life has to offer. So, build your gratitude “muscles” and nurture a continuing sense of wonder and excitement about the world and its endless bounty.
 
The Future Me: Authoring the Second Half of Your Life

Make a list of the things for which you are grateful—your neighbors, the colors of fall, a perfectly struck seven-iron, Lennon and McCartney. Open your mind to the people, places, and moments that make life meaningful, joyous, and fun.

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Look at your list and choose the seven things for which you are most grateful. Now open your date book or personal digital assistant. Enter a word or phrase at the top of each of the next seven days representing each one of the “blessings” on your short list. When you look at your schedule during the coming week, read the word or phrase, and take a moment to appreciate your blessing of the day.
 
   
 
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