
The Mel Robbins Podcast Life Lessons From 100-Year-Olds You Didn’t Know You Needed
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Nov 20, 2025 Dr. Karl Pillemer, a gerontology expert from Cornell University, shares invaluable insights from his research into the lives of centenarians. He reveals the most common regrets people have as they age, emphasizing the importance of living authentically. Listeners learn how to choose happiness, prioritize relationships over possessions, and embrace opportunities. Pillemer urges everyone to express love and resolve estrangements while time permits. His timeless wisdom serves as a powerful reminder to live fully and with intention before it's too late.
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Happiness Is A Choice Now
- Happiness and purpose are choices made within imperfect circumstances rather than destinations.
- Focus on controllable actions and savor small moments to create fulfillment now.
Replace Worry With A Plan
- Stop mindless rumination and plan for plausible risks instead of endlessly worrying.
- Use concrete planning and therapy if needed to eliminate chronic worry.
People Over Possessions
- End-of-life regrets cluster around relationships and experiences, not possessions.
- People uniformly value people and experiences over accumulating things.







