The average life expectancy for infants born in 2013 is 81 years old for females and 76 years old for males. Clearly, these ages are only an average, but there are things can provide some insight into your longevity scorecard. We all know that with the modern medical advances, living longer is an ever-increasing possibility. While we can always do the things that allow us to live a long healthy life, at the end of the day, we can’t predict how long we will live.
I believe that one of the keys to living a long healthy life is happiness. Happiness is a choice. There are countless books that discuss and prove that happiness, and the choice to be happy, can have long lasting results. Along with happiness is gratitude. Simply finding something to be grateful for can significantly increase your level of happiness. Have you ever tried to stay angry when you are smiling? The next time you get angry, start first with putting on a fake smile. It is harder than you think. Then, keep that smile on, if you can, and watch it turn into a genuine smile, especially if you can find something to be grateful for and keep it in your thoughts. Try it, you might like it!
A study done by Deakin University revealed that there are three predominant areas that bring happiness in your life. Those are good personal relationships, financial security, and a sense of purpose. What I found the most interesting is that financial security, more than money alone, can add to your level of happiness. If you are not feeling financially secure, there are some things to consider:
- Life insurance provides for your family in the event of a tragedy. It is typically the financial burden that causes the most emotional grief. Life insurance can mitigate that financial distress and add security to your planning.
- An income plan. Knowing how retirement income streams work can help you look at ways to maximize the efficiency of your savings today, in pre-retirement, so that you can enjoy an income for life. Always begin with the end in mind.
- Investments that begin with a solid foundation. A solid foundation that has little to no risk combined with high levels of control can add peace of mind to your financial life and will allow you to focus on what you are passionate about.
- Other insurance that defers risk such as health insurance, home insurance, auto insurance, disability insurance, umbrella insurance, and long term care. Anything that allows you to defer risk to another party, so you aren’t constantly worried about it, can add many layers of happiness to your financial plan.
We have included a longevity scorecard that you may find very interesting and revealing.
Here at Paradigm Life, we want to help you increase your level of happiness and security during your financial journey. We want to teach you how to grow your wealth as efficiently as possible, beginning with a solid foundation, resulting in more joy and happiness throughout your life.
