At 81, the author’s grandmother remains vibrant and healthy, attributing her longevity to building a strong community, staying physically active, and purposefully avoiding the relentless pursuit of traditional success.
Last New Year’s Eve, while I was in my pajamas, getting ready to watch the ball drop, my 80-year-old Nana called. She spontaneously insisted that all her seven children, numerous grandchildren, and even more great-grandchildren come to her house to celebrate. We obliged, and that moment perfectly encapsulated her spirit: full of life, spontaneity, and joy.
Born in Jamaica, she had her first two children there before moving to England, where she had three more. She later moved from England to the US and had her last two children. Upon arriving in America, she had to rebuild her community from scratch, finding it primarily through her church family. She adapted to American traditions and thrived.
She loves being surrounded by people, especially her many grandchildren, who keep her laughing and teach her about the latest trends. Another secret to her vitality is how busy she keeps herself. Every time I call, she is engaged in something different, whether talking to someone, gardening, or preparing for an appointment.
She recently told me, “Your mind will keep working if you keep working it.”
Maintaining physical and mental balance is crucial to her strength. She believes life is less about physical health and more about emotional and mental stability. She starts her mornings with prayer, breakfast, and meditation in her garden. She takes vitamins, eats as organically as she can, and walks around her yard daily.
We often discuss wellness topics, including vitamins, reflexology, and chiropractic care. Our conversations always return to the importance of staying curious and taking care of one’s mind and body.
Unlike many modern women, including myself, chasing traditional professional success was never my grandmother’s primary goal. She views her family as her greatest achievement. Still, she told me that she sometimes looks at modern women and wishes she had done more and built a life independent of men. Yet, she also questions the culture of constant ambition, believing that endless hustle is detrimental to health.
She believes that accepting and loving what you currently have—especially your family—is what has kept her young, rather than constantly chasing something bigger and better. When she shared this perspective, it fundamentally changed my outlook. For a long time, I equated success with collecting degrees and achievements, but I now see it differently.
My grandmother built her freedom through faith, family, and consistency. She never stopped learning, laughing, or growing. This is her true secret to longevity.
I am now following her example by striving to stay curious, grounded, and grateful. I recognize that the real key to success is not how much is achieved, but how fully life is lived.
