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An organised life is a long life

A study has shown that ambitious, organised and conscientious people live longer than those who are impulsive. Self-controlled people are more likely to be healthy than people who take risks.

The study undertaken by the University of California, suggests that psychological traits can be as important in predicting health as medical and social factors and conscientious people can live up to four years longer. Highly conscientious people live on average two to four years longer, are less likely to smoke or drink to excess, and live more stable and less stressful lives. Other healthy traits included thoroughness, reliability, deliberation, competence and dutifulness.

Previous studies have focused on negative traits, such as depression and hostility in affecting health.

The study analysed data from 20 studies that focused on conscientiousness-related traits and longevity, and involved more than 8,900 participants from the US, Canada, Japan, Germany, Norway and Sweden.

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