Secrets for an Exceptional Life

What is your secret to longevity?

I have a sense Deborah Szekely, founder of North America's first wellness spa - Rancho La Puerta - gets asked this question regularly. This month she turned 103. Of course, people want to know her secret sauce.

I had the privilege of meeting Deborah while presenting five positive psychology-inspired talks at the Ranch last month. During the guests' Q/A with her one night, she answered this popular question about healthy aging. The room became still as people leaned in, hoping to soak up her every word.

Curious about her answer?

She said her goal is to live an exceptional long life. Here are some of her "secrets" -

✅ She lives with no exceptions around her health and wellness
✅ She walks one mile each day
✅ She maintains a healthy diet (again...no exceptions!)
✅ She does what's right in her heart
✅ She surrounds herself with multi-generational friendships
✅ She is optimistic
✅ She focuses on what she can change and where she has control
✅ She tries to limit bringing negativity into her mind and instead focuses her attention on thoughts that serve her well

In short, she is a breathing, walking, and living example of positive psychology in action. She also hit on EVERY SINGLE ONE of the talks I gave at the ranch.

I couldn't ask for better validation of what positive psychology research has shown us -

Our mindsets matter, optimism is correlated with healthy aging and longevity, healthy relationships keep us afloat throughout life's ups and downs, and choosing where to focus our attention and thoughts creates our reality and ultimately our lasting imprints and legacy.

If you could use support around living with greater joy and meaning, let's connect. I'd love to help you live an exceptional life.

I'm grateful to share that I'll return to speak at the Ranch in 2026 - stay tuned for dates!