Linked & Lift issue #10: 7 Early Research-Backed Wake-Up Calls We Often Receive Too Late in Life.
[Reading Time: 3 mins]
There is one certainty about time.
It’s slipping away.
And we often find ourselves waking up to its fleeting nature only when the sun is setting.
But what if we could catch these slips earlier?
What if we could live with intention, purpose, and fulfillment from the start?
In this post, I’ll share research-backed insights that can serve as early wake-up calls.
Lessons we should embrace now, not later.
Let’s dive in:
THE 7 RESEARCH-BACKED INSIGHTS:
1. Life is Now:
We exist beyond our birth and death dates.
It’s the breaths we take, the choices we make, and the connections we forge - this is your real life.
The present is where life unfolds.
Positive psychology research highlights the importance of focusing on the present moment and being mindful.
"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, nor to worry about the future, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly." - Buddha
2. Regrets Are Costly Currency:
Imagine sitting with a wise elder who reflects on their life.
What regrets would they share?
Research by Bronnie Ware, a palliative care nurse, reveals common end-of-life regrets.
The most common late-life regrets are unexpressed feelings, overwork, and neglected happiness.
Let’s learn from these regrets and act now.
3. Authentic Relationships Matter:
The 80-year-long Harvard Grant Study reveals that good relationships keep us happier and healthier.
Authentic relationships are at the heart of a meaningful life.
Cultivate authentic relationships.
4. Purpose Fuels Resilience:
Viktor Frankl is an Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist.
In his famous book, Man’s Search for Meaning, he observed that a sense of purpose makes suffering bearable.
Purpose ignites resilience and gives a reason to keep going.
Find your “why” and let it guide you.
"Those who have a 'why' to live can bear with almost any 'how.'" - Viktor E. Frankl, Man's Search for Meaning
5. Health is a treasure:
We often neglect health until it’s compromised.
Research shows that preventive measures are key to longevity and vitality.
They include exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management.
Invest in your health before it's too late.
6. Embrace Vulnerability:
Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability highlights its power.
Vulnerability nurtures connection, creativity, and courage.
Show your true self to the world and watch the magic unfold.
7. Learn from Loss:
Loss, whether of a loved one, a job, or a dream, is a harsh teacher.
But it fosters growth.
Research on post-traumatic growth shows that adversity can lead to positive transformation.
Seek meaning in setbacks and rise stronger.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
These insights serve as reminders to cherish the present, cultivate meaningful connections, and live with purpose.
Give them a try, and let me know how it goes.
And as a bonus, check out this Brené Brown TedTalk video on the power of vulnerability—it's truly inspiring.
Until next week,
Véronique,
References:
Positive Psychology Center
Bronnie Ware’s Regrets of the Dying
Harvard Grant Study
Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Brené Brown’s TED Talk on Vulnerability
Post-Traumatic Growth Research
Superb contents.