Are you ready to redefine what aging means for you? In a world that often views aging as a limitation, what if you could flip the script and see it as a new beginning? In this episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, host Gerald J. Leonard chats with James Flaherty, an inspiring 89-year-old author and motivational speaker. They dive into how aging impacts productivity and the mindset that can help us lead fulfilling lives as we grow older. Living in a charming 1940s dairy barn in the Berkshires, Jim truly believes that you’re "only as old as you think you are." His latest book, Loving Longevity, reflects this philosophy.

 

Jim attributes his success to a strong work ethic and the joy he finds in his craft. He shares a memorable quote from Noël Coward: “Work is more fun than fun,” underscoring the value of daily routines and prioritizing tasks. He recommends creating a nightly to-do list to ease anxiety and make space for creativity.

 

Throughout their conversation, Jim emphasizes the importance of social connections and staying active. He talks about “blue zones,” where community ties lead to longer lives. To tackle loneliness, he encourages listeners to engage with their communities and nurture relationships. Jim’s insights remind us that embracing aging can open doors to new passions and opportunities, making it a journey worth celebrating.

 

Tune in now to discover how you can embrace aging and unlock your potential!

 

What We Discuss

• [02:01 ] Introduction to James Flaherty

• [06:13 ] Daily discipline and routine

• [09:04 ] Music and inspiration

• [13:14 ] The importance of work ethic

• [17:58 ] Gratitude and happiness

• [20:56 ] Mindset over physical condition

• [22:39 ] The importance of education at any age

• [24:17 ] Engaging with life

• [35:27 ] Finding purpose in aging

 

Notable Quotes

• [05:08 ] “If you want to live a long time, you have to take care of the basic machine. I eat properly, I don't smoke, and I exercise every morning, whether I want to or not.” - James Flaherty

• [17:58 ] “Every day I am grateful, and every day I show gratitude for that. At 89, I do not wake up in pain, and I have never awakened depressed.” - James Flaherty

• [19:25 ] “Every morning of your life, you're going to have to confront your biggest critic, your biggest enemy, the highest wall you have to hurdle—it's that person in your bathroom mirror.” - James Flaherty

• [33:40 ] “The biggest problem of aging is that too many elders are living alone because she has died or he has died, and they're alone. Loneliness is the biggest stress and perhaps the biggest cause of early death.” - James Flaherty

 

Guest Bio

Jim Flaherty was an international advertising writer/creative director who has published two novels, and two non-fiction books. He was also creator and innkeeper of a five-star country inn/conference center. He is a frequent motivational speaker about aging cheerfully. A strong believer in “you are only as old as you think,” Jim thinks 89 (going on 59) is terrific, and is a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His home is a 1940's art-filled dairy barn in the foothills of the Berkshires.

 

Resources

James Flaherty

• Website - https://jamesbflaherty.com/

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-b-flaherty/

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamesbflahertyauthor/

• Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@jamesbflaherty

• James Flaherty Books: Link

 

Productivity Smarts Podcast

• Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com

 

Gerald J. Leonard

• Website - geraldjleonard.com

• Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com

• Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard

 

Mentioned Book

• The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health Hardcover – September 5, 2023 by Ellen J. Langer

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