The Art of Thriving. What an Ageing Expert Wants You to Know
I came across an article in the Guardian this morning and I thought it was absolutely worthy of a share. It was written by Dr. Kerry Burnight, and I am inspired by her wisdom because it aligns so beautifully with the message we live out here at Rebellious Aging.
This is my rebel's take on her article, plus a few extra breadcrumbs in case you want to keep learning after you finish reading.
What if ageing wasn't something to fear, fight, or fix, but something to expand into with joy, purpose, and rebellious spark? Dr. Kerry is one of America's leading gerontologists. She taught Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology for years at UC Irvine's School of Medicine, and her work focuses on psychological wellbeing in aging, not just squeezing out more birthdays. As a Rebel, I could not agree more.
In the article, titled "I'm an Expert on Aging. Here is What I Know about Thriving in Later Life," Dr Burnight shares the kind of wisdom that deserves a drumroll, and maybe a dance break.
If Dr. Kerry's message lights you up, do yourself a favor and go deeper. Start with Joyspan for her full framework, visit Dr. Kerry Burnight's website for her current work, browse her Hachette author page for a concise background, and open this YouTube search for Kerry Burnight if you want to hear her ideas in her own voice.
Here is what she says we need to do to truly thrive.
Forget about just adding years to your life (lifespan) or even adding life to your years (healthspan). Dr. Kerry introduces the reader to a richer, deeper concept. Joyspan. Which is living with connection, purpose, and the kind of soul deep contentment that makes aging feel like a privilege, not a penalty.
Now that is rebellious.
Here are her essentials, they are not optional.
Keep learning. Stay curious. Try new things. Yes, even if it scares you a little, or a lot. That is the point. A curious mind keeps us alive, engaged, and fabulously unpredictable. If that nudge speaks to you, keep going with Optimal Aging and If Not Now, When?.
Relationships are the elixir. Whether it's rekindling old friendships, hugging tighter, or even starting new connections online, being seen and known matters. If connection is the piece you've been missing, revisit Gratitude and the Rebellious Soul and join our private Rebellious Aging Facebook group.
Change is a constant companion in later life. The key? Flexibility. Grace. Maybe even a sense of humor, when gravity starts getting sassy. And if you want the physical side of thriving to feel more doable, pair this with Strength and Balance for the Win!.
Your life experience has value. Share it. Mentor, support, volunteer, or simply smile at someone who looks lost. Giving adds meaning and texture to our days.
Dr. Burnight paints a vivid contrast between two women. One is resigned to decline, the other is lit up with curiosity and confidence. The difference was not luck or money. It was mindset. If you are wrestling with that inner critic, read Shhh…That Voice in Your Head is Not the Boss of You and What is Behind Limiting Beliefs?.
Reading this article reminded me that the work we are doing here, embracing radiant health, confidence and unapologetic style, is not superficial. It's survival. It's joy. It's rebellion.
To grow, connect, adapt, and give, that 's what we Rebels do best.
Not sure where to begin? Start with one tiny act of rebellion. Try something new. If you need a little nudge, I've got your back. Reach out and join our community.
Feeling inspired? For the next seven days, choose one small action to grow, connect, adapt or give. Keep a note, share your favorite moment. Let joy surprise you.
Read the full Guardian article here
Sparkle on, Rebels