18 minDan Pink
About this talk
Robert Waldinger directs the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which followed 724 men for 75 years. Its clearest lesson isn't about money, fame or working harder: good relationships keep us happier and healthier.
- 13 min
- Purpose
- by Robert Waldinger
Key notes
What to take away.
- 01Following whole lives
The study tracked the same men from their teenage years into old age, asking about their work, home life and health.
- 02Loneliness is toxic
People more connected to family, friends and community were happier, healthier and lived longer.
- 03Quality beats quantity
It's not how many friends you have, but how good your close relationships are.
- 04Relationships at 50 predict health at 80
The people most satisfied in their relationships at 50 were the healthiest at 80.
- 05Good relationships protect the brain
People who felt they could count on their partner kept sharper memories for longer.
- 06Lean in to relationships
Swap screen time for people time, try something new together, or reach out to someone you haven't spoken to in years.
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