When research is done into why some people survive serious illness and others do not, time and time again the most important factor is not current health or even possessing a positive mental attitude (although both of those can help) it is having a definite purpose for living.

By purpose I mean a greater goal that the person believes they have to achieve before they are ready to shuffle off this mortal coil.

That goal could be simply to see your grandkids walk or get that book published or it could be something as complex as starting a charitable foundation, taking your company to an IPO or influencing Government policy. As long as you see is as a driving force and a genuine reason for living then your body will react positively and do its utmost to help you out.

Have you ever thought what your greater goals are? Have you ever brought them into the forefront of your mind? If not, what is stopping you?

Give it some thought. What drives you on, what do you really look forward to, what if you were celebrating your 80th birthday and looking back on your life would you be most proud of? Devote some time to it by writing it down and thinking about how you are going to achieve it and then go out and do it!

Not only will you have great fun working towards something that is valuable and meaningful to you and who knows, it might even help you live longer too.