Most of us would like to live a long, happy life…what’s the key to success?

The website Bakadesuyo has five scientifically-proven tips to do it:

• Don’t smoke or drink too much  If you do smoke, it’s time to quit.  One study found that heavy smoking was the #1 predictor of early death…but if you can stop by age 45, the effects of it can go away by the time you hit your mid-70’s.
• Keep learning  Continuing to educate yourself helps you live longer, and makes you happier as we’re more likely to adopt healthier habits as we get older.
• Maintain your friendships and be a GOOD friend  Staying social can extend your life but you also need to help your friends and family when they’re in need, and be willing to lean on them when you need help.
• Develop good coping skills  People who find healthy ways to deal with stress tend to live longer than those who get angry or use food and alcohol to cope. A good sense of humor and exercise are better in the long run.
• “Generativity”  That means giving back to your community.  People who help guide younger generations tend to be happier in old age partly because it adds purpose to their lives.  One study found that people who fit into that category are at least three times more likely to be happy after the age of 50.