What gives life meaning? Is it merely the repetition of daily routines until we reach our final days? Perhaps the answer lies in our attitude toward living itself. A recent encounter at a hair salon offered profound insight into this eternal question.
One evening, while waiting for my turn, I overheard an aesthetician performing spot-removal treatment for an 80-year-old woman. Throughout the session, the elderly client listened attentively to the instructions and carefully followed each step. Though I couldn't see her face, her articulate speech and enthusiastic demeanor revealed a youthful spirit and genuine passion for life.
After she left, the aesthetician remarked how remarkably young the octogenarian appeared. More impressive than her physical appearance was the evident refinement in her mannerisms—the dignified grace of someone who had clearly cultivated wisdom and elegance throughout her years. That an 80-year-old would still pursue beauty with such dedication was truly inspiring.
This encounter brought to mind Dr. Shigeaki Hinohara, the centenarian physician featured in "Living Long, Living Good," whose life became a masterclass in perpetual growth. At 90, he took up painting; at 100, he lectured worldwide while maintaining an active Facebook presence; at 101, he conquered his fear of heights by helicopter; at 103, he mounted a horse for the first time; and at 104, he performed in concert tours. Dr. Hinohara considered skincare essential to maintaining youthfulness, believing outward radiance reflects inner vitality. Even at 105, he dressed impeccably for social engagements and once humorously requested brighter stage lighting during a lecture so the audience could "better see my handsome young face."
As the saying goes, humans have no true age—only mindset, knowledge, cultivation, and experience. These remarkable elders demonstrate life's boundless possibilities.
A telling anecdote recounts a centenarian's birthday reflection. When asked about life regrets, he replied: "At 60, I considered learning the accordion but was told, 'Why bother at your age?' I acquiesced—never imagining I'd live to 100. Had I started then, I'd have 40 years of practice by now." This wisdom reminds us: the optimal time to begin anything is when the desire first strikes.
Yet many adults relinquish curiosity, resisting new experiences. Some become intellectually stagnant by 30, merely awaiting physical departure decades later. This need not be our fate. By establishing phased goals—whether mastering skills, absorbing literature, or serving others—we infuse daily existence with purpose.
When asked how long I'll continue teaching, my answer remains constant: indefinitely. Should demand for my current subject wane, I'll pivot to sharing insights on entrepreneurship, management, or personal growth—drawing from continuous learning and experience. I envision my octogenarian self: silver-haired, clad in traditional attire, delivering lectures seated comfortably, dispensing hard-won wisdom without notes or slides. In that vision, I'll have achieved my aspiration—not just growing old, but becoming an elder worth heeding.
Why must we have objectives? Scientific evidence confirms goal-oriented individuals live 7-8 years longer on average than those without aims. Purpose itself constitutes happiness, providing propulsion for growth. Imagine awakening each morning knowing your efforts create tangible impact—could emptiness persist?
Targets needn't be grandiose. Learning guitar, finishing Tolstoy, volunteering—these modest pursuits confer meaning. The key lies in authentic engagement, not self-imposed pressure. Savor the journey; the destination will follow.
Let us emulate that beauty-seeking octogenarian and Dr. Hinohara's indefatigable spirit. Time measures nothing; vitality everything. Through perpetual learning and purposeful living, we write our own extraordinary stories—one ageless chapter at a time.