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Are you a stubborn jackass? Really think about that question. And if the answer is ‘yes,” well you’re in luck, because that means you may outlive other non-stubborn folks.
A new study, published in the journal International Psychogeriatics, looking into the mental and physical health levels of Italians between the ages of 90 and 101 found that being stubborn, as well as having a positive mindset and having a strong work ethic can add years to your life. Then again, it’s tough being positive in this day and age.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego and the University of Rome La Sapienza surveyed 29 OAPs who lived in nine remote villages in the Cilento region of southern Italy. The scientists assessed the OAPs’ mental and physical health through a number of tests and interviews. They also asked the OAPs’ younger relatives to describe their elders’ personalities and lifestyles.
The researchers found that while they tended to have a positive life outlook, many of the OAPs shared stubborn personality traits. The academics claim that being stubborn can be psychologically good for you as stubborn gits tend to be less bothered about what other people think of them. The OAPs were also found to have a common passion for rural life.
Here’s what Dilip V. Jeste, professor of psychiatry and neurosciences at UC San Diego and one of the co-authors of the study, and to say:
“There have been a number of studies on very old adults, but they have mostly focused on genetics rather than their mental health or personalities. The main themes that emerged from our study, and appear to be the unique features associated with better mental health of this rural population, were positivity, work ethic, stubbornness and a strong bond with family, religion and land.”
In conclusion: stick to your guns and be a stubborn a-hole to add years to your life. But don’t forget about having a good work ethic, whatever that means.
