I believe many people are not living life to the fullest because they let the general perception about age limit them. We’ve all heard the statement, “Act your age!” My question is, what does that mean? Oh, we say it to children who are acting like babies; but far too often, people hear it in their heads as they grow into adulthood. They think “old” and act “old” because in their heads, they continue to hear that old recording – “Act your age! Act your age!” Well, how do you act your age? Do you act like everyone else? I say no!

I believe you should never let your age limit you! People who don’t let their age limit them live fuller lives. I once played golf with two gentlemen I’d met at a church where I spoke. They were both 85 years young. They were full of energy, excited about life, and looking forward to the future with great anticipation. I asked them what their secret to long life was.

They each said it was important to keep thinking positive thoughts; and that whatever age you are, is a great age to be! “There’s still a lot of life left to live,” they each said. One had been married 60 years and the other for 61 years! And they both were still in love with their wives! WOW! They agreed that a key secret to longevity is finding a life partner you like as much as you love! While life is challenging for everyone, they agreed it was infinitely easier when you have a great life partner to share it with. Find someone you like as much as you love, because your longevity could depend on it!

Another wonderful example, is my friend Jeanne Robertson. She is one of America’s Living Legends. Having a professional speaking career that spans over 50 years, she’s still going strong! She is a viral Internet sensation today with over 40 million views of her popular YouTube channel! In addition, Jeanne has been featured on CBS’s “60 Minutes” and is heard daily on SiriusXM Radio’s Family Comedy Channel. Jeanne is now in her mid-seventies and reminds us that age is just a number. It is mindset that really matters! Jeanne says, “Never let your age limit you. Use it to lift you to the next level. Embrace the internet and technology!”

Entertainer Chuck Brown is another person who didn’t let his age define who he was. Chuck created the music genre, called “Go-Go.” It is a phenomenon that is very popular on the East Coast, especially in the Washington, DC area. He was nominated for a Grammy Award and performed with the National Symphony Orchestra during a Labor Day celebration on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol. Chuck also performed around the United States and world; typically 4 or 5 nights a week. During the peak of his career, Chuck Brown was 75 years young!

During my SuriusXM interview with him, I asked Chuck to give me the secret to his success. “I think young, and so I feel young.” he said. His secret to his success and his youthfulness was that he refused to act his age! “Think that you are still viable and valuable. Think positively and understand that the mind dictates what the body does! Think about being healthy, happy and whole. Many of my friends and contemporaries told me to retire with them at 65. I refused. I kept performing at concerts.” And now, he said, “Many of them are either dead or half-dead!”

Don’t let other people dictate how you should act at a certain age. Think “young” and enjoy life! Every day is a gift.

Live life to the fullest and follow your heart. Set huge goals! People with goals live longer. Make a commitment to live your dreams as long as you have life and breath!

Don’t let your age limit you! And whatever you do…don’t act your age!