At the age of 101, Si Liberman has experienced more life events than most people can imagine. A veteran of World War II, a survivor of the Great Depression, a heart attack, and even a coma, Si has lived through some of the most turbulent periods in modern history. Yet, he credits his long life not just to luck, but to a set of lifestyle choices and personal habits he has cultivated over the years. In a reflective piece for The Washington Post on October 13, Liberman shared seven lessons that he believes have contributed to his longevity, offering insights into how to live a long and fulfilling life.

1. Prioritize Relationships

For Liberman, relationships have been the cornerstone of his long and happy life. Married for 76 years to his wife Dorothy, who is now 97, he emphasizes that strong family bonds provide emotional stability and joy. “I’ve been very lucky. We have two terrific children who we’re very close to, and two grandchildren who always keep in touch,” he said. Maintaining close connections, celebrating milestones together, and nurturing emotional ties, he suggests, can provide both mental and physical benefits, creating a support system that sustains individuals even in the face of adversity.

2. Avoid Smoking

One of the habits Liberman credits most to his longevity is avoiding smoking, a practice common among his peers during his youth. “Most everyone smoked when I was young, but I didn’t. When I started dating my wife, she was smoking now and again, but I got her to quit,” he recalled. Avoiding tobacco, he suggests, has played a crucial role in maintaining his cardiovascular health and overall well-being, emphasizing that the choices we make early in life can have long-term consequences.

3. Exercise Regularly and Eat Healthily

A consistent exercise routine and a balanced diet have been central to Liberman’s approach to long life. After moving to Florida 14 years ago, he incorporated walking along the beach and swimming in his building’s pool into his daily routine. He also maintains a diet rich in fruits and fish, noting, “We’ve always tried to eat healthy. I have fruit for breakfast and eat a lot of fish.” Liberman’s approach demonstrates that moderate, consistent physical activity combined with nutrient-rich foods can significantly enhance longevity, mobility, and quality of life in later years.

4. Maintain a Positive Attitude

Liberman emphasizes that a positive outlook is often underestimated as a factor in longevity. “Despite having to get through some dark days, I’ve never been down for very long. If I have a cold, I think it will be better soon. If I’m going through a rough time, I think I just have to live through it and things will look up. I think attitude is highly underrated and can’t be underestimated,” he said. Cultivating resilience, optimism, and mental strength, he believes, helps individuals navigate life’s inevitable challenges and reduces the stress that can accelerate aging.

5. Seek Appropriate Medical Care

In addition to lifestyle habits, Liberman stresses the importance of modern medicine in sustaining longevity. “I’ve benefited from the scientific progress we’ve made in treating health conditions and what I would call the miracles of modern medicine. We’ve always been careful and had routine appointments with doctors,” he explained. Routine checkups, timely interventions, and preventive care, he suggests, are essential to catching potential health issues early and ensuring that one can maintain health into advanced age.

6. Do Work That Feels Meaningful

A sense of purpose and engagement in meaningful work has also been integral to Liberman’s long life. As the former editor of the Asbury Park Sunday Press, he spent over 40 years in a challenging and rewarding career in journalism. “When I was working, it was a challenging and rewarding job as a journalist for more than 40 years. And I still do a little writing to keep busy,” he said. Staying intellectually active, pursuing one’s passions, and contributing meaningfully to society, he believes, keeps the mind sharp and provides a sense of accomplishment that promotes mental well-being.

7. Embrace a Little Luck

Finally, Liberman acknowledges the role of chance in his longevity. He describes himself as fortunate in love and life, particularly in his long partnership with Dorothy. “I believe I’ve been a lucky guy in a 79-year relationship with my wife. Though she’s had some memory problems since falling several times, she always remembers to exchange kisses before we go to sleep at night. Living with someone you care about, who also cares about you, really helps,” he reflected. While lifestyle choices are critical, he notes, the serendipitous elements of life—timely opportunities, supportive relationships, and favorable circumstances—also contribute to longevity.

Lessons from a Century of Experience

Si Liberman’s reflections provide a unique perspective, bridging personal experience with practical advice for modern readers. His life spans monumental historical events, from the global upheaval of World War II to the economic hardships of the Great Depression. Surviving these events required resilience, adaptability, and fortitude, qualities that complement his daily habits of health and well-being.

Moreover, Liberman’s longevity tips are widely accessible. They do not rely on extreme diets, expensive supplements, or high-intensity regimens. Instead, they emphasize consistency, moderation, and attention to mental, emotional, and physical health. The combination of strong social bonds, healthy living, optimism, meaningful work, regular medical care, and a touch of luck forms a holistic approach that anyone can adapt to their own circumstances.

A Reminder for All Ages

While centenarians are rare, Liberman’s life demonstrates that longevity is influenced by a combination of choices, environment, and genetics. His story is not just about surviving decades; it is about thriving, maintaining curiosity, and actively engaging with life. For younger generations, his example offers guidance on cultivating habits that promote long-term well-being. For older adults, it serves as encouragement that maintaining connections, staying active, and embracing positivity can continue to enrich life, even in later years.

Liberman’s reflections also highlight the interplay between luck and deliberate effort. While some factors, such as genetics or the timing of life events, may be beyond control, many aspects of health and happiness—exercise, diet, relationships, mindset, and purpose—are within reach. This balance of personal responsibility and acceptance of the unpredictable is a recurring theme in accounts of long-lived individuals.

Conclusion

At 101, Si Liberman stands as a testament to resilience, prudence, and the power of daily habits. His story combines the wisdom of lived experience with practical guidance, illustrating how longevity is not merely a function of time, but of thoughtful choices, strong relationships, and a positive outlook on life. By prioritizing relationships, avoiding harmful habits, exercising, maintaining a positive attitude, seeking medical care, engaging in meaningful work, and acknowledging a little luck, Liberman has crafted a blueprint for a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.