Living longer isn’t the goal — living better is. Science shows that happiness and longevity aren’t just about genetics or personal willpower; they’re shaped by environment, mindset and daily habits. At YPO EDGE 2025, Arthur Brooks, Harvard professor and leading expert on human happiness, and Dan Buettner, researcher and bestselling author, shared how leaders can apply cutting-edge research on meaning and longevity to build a life — and a company — where well-being thrives. Here’s what they had to say.
Reclaiming meaning in an age of distraction
A quick glance at social media — or a conversation with a 20-something — reveals a troubling trend: rising anxiety and declining fulfillment. According to Brooks, the root cause isn’t just stress or technology overload — it’s a loss of meaning.
Brooks argues that ‘meaning’ is the foundation of happiness, built on coherence, purpose and significance. Yet, today’s over-reliance on technology is rewiring our brains, weakening the right hemisphere responsible for introspection and deep thinking. The result? A “meaning doom loop” that leaves many feeling empty.
Here are four ways Brooks suggests to reverse the happiness crisis:
- Take a tech detox
Constant screen time keeps the brain in a state of distraction, preventing the creative and reflective work that drives meaning. Brooks recommends setting up tech-free zones — during the first hour of the day, at meals and before bed. He also suggests an annual tech fast of one to two weeks to reset the mind.
- Embrace boredom
Silence and stillness activate the brain’s right hemisphere, sparking creativity and big ideas. Walking without a phone, commuting without distractions, or simply sitting with one’s thoughts can be powerful exercises in breaking the cycle of overstimulation.
- Ask big questions
Brooks challenges leaders to engage in deeper reflection: Why am I alive? What would I die for? These questions drive introspection, reframe priorities, and restore a sense of purpose — something modern distractions often erode.
- Get small
“In a world obsessed with self-importance, prioritize humility,” Brooks advises. He practices this through daily Mass, but emphasizes that meditation, time in nature or volunteering can achieve the same effect. He recalls a conversation with the Dalai Lama, who noted that seeing Earth from space instantly shifts perspective, making personal worries seem trivial.
Brooks’ message to leaders is clear: Meaning isn’t found in the noise — it’s cultivated through reflection, humility and stepping away from the digital distractions that dominate modern life.
Designing longevity — why environment beats genetics
The debate between nature and nurture is shifting. While genetics play a role in aging, emerging research confirms that lifestyle and environment have a far greater impact on long-term health.
Buettner has spent decades studying the world’s “Blue Zones” — regions where people routinely live past 100 with ease. His findings, featured in the Netflix hit “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones”, offer a compelling case for environmental design as the key to longevity. Buettner shared with the EDGE attendees how they can apply these lessons — no ice baths required.
Longevity Is 70% lifestyle
Buettner’s research shows that genetics account for only 30% of longevity. The rest is driven by environment and daily habits. Blue Zone communities share key characteristics: natural movement (instead of structured workouts), a plant-based diet, strong social connections and a clear sense of purpose.
How to build a Blue Zone anywhere
Rather than relying on willpower, Blue Zones make healthy choices the default. In Albert Lea, Minnesota, U.S.A., city planners applied these principles by adding sidewalks, community gardens and healthier food options. The result? Life expectancy increased over three years and health care costs dropped by 40%.
“We found that when you optimize people’s environment, they succeed,” says Buettner. “They unconsciously become healthier for longer — and they don’t even have to work at it.”
The takeaway for leaders is clear: Sustainable health isn’t about individual effort — it’s about designing environments where well-being happens naturally. Whether in communities or workplaces, longevity isn’t just about genes. It’s about making the right choices easy.
