We all want to live the longest life possible. With the major advances that have been made in health sciences and the medical industry within the past century and a half, there is hope of humans living far longer than previously estimated.

Just since the nineteenth century, the average life expectance has almost doubled from forty years to an astounding seventy-five years. Now days, several people are living well past the age of one hundred with the oldest living person in the world currently at age 114. According to Guinness Book of World Records the oldest person to ever live, Jeanne Louise Calment, was one hundred twenty-two when she passed away in August of 1997.

So, what is the secret to living a long time? It really is anyone’s guess, but you can take a few lessons from some people who have managed to live productive, happy lives well into their eighties and beyond. You will discover that these people share similar traits that provide a huge piece to the longevity puzzle. Here are the top traits of people who live a long time:

Honesty really is the best policy. Many may say that nice guys always come in last; however, this may not be true in terms of longevity. When you lie, it causes you to have a guilty conscious and fills your mind with harmful stress, which weighs heavy on your heart. Living free from guilt and worry allows you to live a long, easygoing life.

Put others before yourself. People who put others before themselves without a second thought are rare creatures these days. One of the primary traits of individuals who live well past average is the acts of selflessness that they show for their loved ones.

Be passionate in your life. People who have lived well past average life expectancy followed their passions and interests. By having a hobby or career about which you are truly passionate makes waking up each morning a little more stimulating. Your passion will keep you going through the hard times you face throughout your life that are filled with confusion, pain and grief.

Work hard and live longer. If you just sit still and wait for life to pass you by, that is exactly what will happen. For people who have spent the majority of their lives working hard and providing for the people they love, sitting still is simply not an option. Work ethic helps people build confidence as well as a sense of purpose that keeps them going for many, many years.

Keep close with family. Family is an important part of anyone’s life. By watching your children and other members of your family grow as their lives take shape, you are consistently reminded of your own mistakes and successes and are able to help others. If you have a strong connection to your family, you will be a stronger person, who is ready to fight off any grief, illness or melancholy.

Give all the love that you have. We all know what it is like to feel love deeply for our families, friends and partners. When you combine love with selflessness, there are no boundaries.

Laugh as much as possible. It has been proven that laughter really is the best medicine, but it is also one of the secrets to living a long and happy life. Being able to laugh at yourself, your situation or at life in general is vital to lifelong happiness.

Dena White is a freelance blogger and covers topics such as how to earn a nursing degree online.