By Marvin H. Berenson, M.D.

October 28, 2011

Living the good life has been expressed by countless writers over millenia of time. The ideas and philosophy can be simply stated. Live as though you will live forever, yet live each day as though it is your last one. Emphasize creativity, freedom, self-direction and love.

Always believe that you can overcome all obstacles, yet retain a sense of reality so that you don’t hit your head against a wall in frustration when you err in your judgment as to what you can accomplish.  Be willing to shift directions, establish new goals, overcome frustration, know you can overcome barriers and that the light is always ahead no matter how dark it may appear at times.

The area of creativity is a key to vital and imaginative living. Find ways to overcome blocks in creativity, procrastination and self doubt. A key component to achieving success is to eliminate comparison with others One’s uniqueness is the sine qua non for a creative lifestyle and belief in one’s self is the essential personal ingredient. 

The health of your body and brain are essential to reach and maintain your optimal lifestyle. A good diet and physical exercise are required. No need to have a fancy diet. Simplicity rules. Just maintain your weight and reduce it, if feasible, if you are overweight.

Friendships, love, intimacy and sharing life are other important areas to cultivate as you strive to live the good life.

I firmly believe that each of us can overcome all barriers to a fulfilling life. Childhood, through adolescence, adulthood and the wide-open retirement period, should only be seen as periods of transitions to a continuing and improving productive and happy life. Each phase can be the time of a person’s maximum productiveness and creativity. Each phase can be the time to ever-increasing fulfillment as we move wholeheartedly into the future.

We all go through life cycles of varying lengths with death as the inevitable end of the cycle that was set in motion by our birth.  Neither is controlled by us. In-between birth and death is a wonderland of opportunity. For many it is not until we enter the second half of life does the real possibility of living freely actually take place. It is a time to do everything possible to live healthfully, vitally and productively and thus make these final years, no matter how long or short, as happy and bountiful as possible.

But always know that it is not in the final years or the earliest years or the years in-between. The time is always now and each time period is your time to fulfill your life.

Visit www.DrMarvinBerenson.com to sign-up to receive Dr. Berenson’s highly informative biweekly newsletter and two FREE gifts. Every two weeks Dr. Berenson will discuss various subjects that will include: creativity, imagery, ways to improve your life, overcoming emotional barriers, diet and exercise programs, improving relationships and other ways to help you lead a more fulfilling and happier life. Among his 11 books are some that can enhance your life.

Marvin H. Berenson, M.D. is Clinical Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry, USC Keck School of Medicine, psychiatrist, lecturer, author and artist.