The 11 Daily Habits That Helped Jane Goodall Live to 91 – How Many of These are Yours, Too?
Years ago, when I was living in Shanghai, I had lunch with Jane Goodall. She gifted me a book, and signed with a message that has stayed with me ever since:
“For Brenda and Daniel,
Together we can make this a better world for all living things. Thank you for caring. – Jane Goodall”
Jane recently passed away at the age of 91. Reflecting on her extraordinary life, I’m struck by the daily habits that shaped not only her longevity but also her incredible impact on the world.
Here are Jane Goodall’s 11 Daily Habits:
① A strong sense of purpose – mission over career
② Daily walking – movement as medicine
③ Time outdoors – nature heals
④ A plant-based diet – energy from plants
⑤ Cultivated calm through mindfulness – stress in check
⑥ Surrounded herself with animals – joy and empathy
⑦ Made time for self-care – balance matters
⑧ Built strong relationships – connection is longevity
⑨ Traveled regularly and stayed curious – brain and spirit alive
⑩ Lived simply – gratitude over clutter
⑪ Carried hope everywhere – optimism as fuel
Jane’s habits remind us that the way we live and lead ourselves each day matters – not only for our own well-being but also for the legacy we leave.
How do your own daily habits compare with Jane’s? Which of these do you already practice?