Do those who engage in productive, meaningful work live longer, healthier lives compared to those who are more lax and laid back? This chapter suggests that contrary to popular belief, work and stress is not always negative– meaningful work allows us to live more happily, and Terman participants with the most successful careers were more likely to live a longer life. Although some participants had stressful and high-pressure jobs (like Norris Bradbury), they lived a long life. What influenced the longevity of these participants? It’s clear that those who were ambitious and motivated were more likely to live longer, in contrast with their peers who lacked direction and drifted into their careers. I found it interesting, yet not surprising, that those with more control in their jobs lived happier and healthier lives. It’s not the work in particular that causes stress in one’s job, but rather the work environment. Factors such as having a good relationship with one’s boss and being friendly with coworkers greatly influences happiness and work satisfaction. Since we spend a majority of our lives at work, it is important that we do work we are passionate about and enjoy spending time in the environment in which we work because it will ultimately play a role in our happiness.
Reading this chapter made me a feel a little bit unsettled. As a senior, I’m having a difficult time deciding the next step after graduation. Since I’m indecisive, I’m having a difficult time deciding what career path I want to pursue (should I continue in psychology? Go into a completely different field?). Although in the past, I decided I want to pursue Occupational Therapy, I’m having second thoughts about my decision and don’t want to trapped into a career I am unsure about. Reading this chapter made me think about those who may have chose their career based on familial expectations or security, and not interests or passion. How does this lack of control influence longevity? I wish this chapter discussed Terman participants who followed career paths that they were not passionate about pursuing. The chapter focuses on participants who either A) were highly successful in their careers or B) mindlessly drifted between various jobs. It would be interesting to examine participants who chose a set career path but did not live long lives and what factors lead to their early death.