Could living nearly a century come down to just two habits?
Dick Van Dyke thinks so. The 99-year-old Hollywood legend, known for Mary Poppins and countless other classics, says that avoiding certain vices and staying calm have been crucial to his long and active life.
Dick Van Dyke, now 99 and approaching his 100th birthday, credits his remarkable longevity to simple yet life-changing habits. The beloved actor believes that steering clear of cigarettes and alcohol played a major role in maintaining his health. Though he smoked and drank heavily in his younger years, he eventually recognized the need to quit.
“I smoked a lot. Probably in my 50s, I realized I had an addictive personality. I liked things too much,” Van Dyke shared. He quit both smoking and drinking, a decision he says has helped him remain healthy. In 1972, he sought treatment for alcoholism and successfully became sober, though he admits giving up smoking was even more challenging.
On the Real No Really podcast, he reflected, “It was much worse than the alcohol.” Despite occasional dips in energy, Van Dyke maintains a positive outlook, saying, “I never wake up in a bad mood.” Beyond giving up harmful substances, he attributes his long life to staying calm and avoiding anger or resentment. “I think that’s helped me,” he noted.
Van Dyke believes that holding onto negative emotions can harm health, and his peaceful approach has supported his vitality over the decades. As he prepares to celebrate his 100th birthday on December 13, his advice is simple but profound: avoid destructive habits and cultivate a positive, calm mindset.
Conclusion:
Dick Van Dyke’s near-century of life shows that longevity doesn’t have to be complicated. By letting go of harmful habits and embracing calm and positivity, he proves that a long, healthy, and joyful life may be closer—and simpler—than we think.