Be Happy

The No. 1 key to a happier, longer life—'that younger people don't' know, according to the oldest and 'wisest' Americans

According to the older adults Pillemer interviewed, these are the most valuable things you can do with your time:

1. Say things now to people you care about — whether it's expressing gratitude, asking for forgiveness, or getting information.
2. Spend the maximum amount of time with your parents and children.
3. Savor daily pleasures instead of waiting for "big-ticket items" to make you happy.
4. Work in a job you love.
5. Choose your mate carefully; don't just rush in.

The list of things they believed weren't worth their time was just as revealing.

1. No one said that to be happy you should work as hard as you can to get money.
2. No one said it was important to be as wealthy as the people around you.
3. No one said you should choose your career based on its earning potential.
4. No one said they regretted not getting even with someone who slighted them.