Imagine waking up every morning with a plan, energy, and a renewed sense of purpose—regardless of your age. What if you knew that growing older could bring not just wisdom but a higher level of productivity, clarity, and fulfillment?
This mindset isn’t hypothetical. James Flaherty, an 89-year-old author, speaker, and former international creative director, embodies this philosophy. In a recent episode of Productivity Smarts with host Gerald J. Leonard, James shared insights that challenge stereotypes about aging while delivering timeless lessons on mindset, discipline, and habits that are transformational—whether you’re 30 or 90.
As project managers, executives, and ambitious professionals, we often ask:
- How can I accomplish more without burning out?
- Is it possible to remain productive while maintaining balance?
- What habits and routines sustain long-term success?
This blog explores these themes and breaks down actionable strategies rooted in mindset, discipline, and the pursuit of purpose—no matter your stage of life.
The Problem: Stress, Overwhelm, and Negative Work-Life Balance
If you’re a project manager or an executive overseeing large portfolios, you know the weight of responsibility:
- Deadlines loom.
- Meetings pile up.
- Stress levels climb as work invades your evenings and weekends.
You may ask yourself:
- “Am I forgetting something critical?”
- “How do I fix my work-life balance when everything feels urgent?”
- “Will I ever reach a point where I’m not mentally exhausted?”
These thoughts aren’t uncommon—but here’s the truth: mindset and disciplined routines are your secret weapons for achieving sustainable productivity and longevity.
What James Flaherty Teaches Us About Productivity and Longevity
James, at 89 years young, wakes up each morning with a 10-year plan, boundless energy, and a structured routine. He credits his success to three foundational principles:
- Discipline: Start each day with intentionality.
- Work Ethic: Treat work as a source of joy, not burden.
- Mindset: Your outlook shapes your reality.
He doesn’t just “talk the talk”—he lives it:
- At 80, he gave up drinking, focused on nutrition, and started daily swimming workouts.
- He writes down his top six tasks every night and completes them by 11 a.m. the next day.
- His belief? “Work is more fun than fun.”
So, how can you translate James’s wisdom into actionable productivity strategies? Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Develop a Non-Negotiable Daily Routine
James’s day starts with:
- Making his bed: A small but symbolic act of discipline.
- Swimming for 30 minutes: Physical activity that builds energy and clears mental fog.
- Music: Playing music he loves as part of his exercise or relaxation routine.
What can you learn? Structure your mornings to include movement, mindfulness, and planning. Small, intentional habits can transform how your day unfolds.
Action Step:
- Write down the 3–5 critical habits you want to commit to every morning.
- Start small—just 10 minutes of movement or meditation can improve focus and clarity.
Step 2: Write Your To-Do List the Night Before
James advises writing down six tasks you want to accomplish the next day. Why at night?
- Your subconscious mind processes these tasks while you sleep.
- You start your morning with clarity—no decision fatigue.
Gerald J. Leonard adds a neuroscience-backed insight: Writing things down strengthens neural pathways in your brain, improving focus and memory.
Consider this: When was the last time you had a to-do list so clear that you felt in control of your day?
Action Step:
- Before bed, list the top tasks for tomorrow.
- Keep the list visible—on your desk, laptop, or bathroom mirror.
Step 3: Embrace Aging as a Competitive Advantage
James challenges the myth that productivity declines with age:
- Mindset Matters: “You’re only as old as you think.”
- Purpose Drives Longevity: Stay curious, keep learning, and set goals that inspire you.
His story of a friend returning to college at 83 highlights a counterintuitive truth: pursuing new goals later in life can boost energy, health, and happiness.
Reflect: Are you tapping into your experience, wisdom, and relationships to stay relevant and inspired?
Action Step:
- Identify a new skill, hobby, or area of learning that excites you.
- Schedule time weekly to explore it—whether it’s volunteering, learning a language, or mastering a productivity tool
Step 4: Counteract Burnout with Volunteering and Social Connections
Loneliness and disengagement are silent threats to productivity and well-being. James emphasizes:
- Helping others gives you purpose.
- Strong social ties are key to longevity (as proven in Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones research).
Action Step:
- Look for ways to volunteer or mentor within your community or organization.
- Connect with colleagues, family, or friends—especially when work feels overwhelming.
The Counterintuitive Truth: Purpose, Not Retirement, Is the Key to Productivity
Too often, people view aging as “slowing down” or retiring into irrelevance. James proves otherwise:
- He’s writing new books.
- He’s delivering motivational talks.
- He’s setting ambitious 10-year goals.
What would happen if you approached every stage of your career with this same mindset?
The message is clear: Purpose drives productivity, regardless of age.
Books, Quotes, and Scientific Backing
If you’re inspired by James’s approach, here are additional resources:
- Books to Explore:
- From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks (on finding purpose as you age).
- The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner (on habits for longevity).
- Popular Quotes:
- “Work is more fun than fun.” —Noel Coward
- “You’re only as old as you think.”
- Science of Writing Lists:
- Studies show that writing tasks helps declutter your mind and improve productivity.
A Framework for Productivity Longevity
James’s story can be summarized into a simple, repeatable framework:
- Plan: Write tomorrow’s tasks tonight.
- Discipline: Start your day with small, consistent habits.
- Move: Incorporate daily exercise.
- Learn: Keep your mind sharp through lifelong learning.
- Give: Volunteer and maintain strong social connections.
Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
Aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it’s an opportunity to refine your purpose, habits, and mindset to create your most productive years yet.
If you’re struggling with burnout, overwhelm, or work-life balance, take inspiration from James Flaherty’s unwavering work ethic and enthusiasm for life.
What’s one habit you can adopt today to love your longevity and reclaim your productivity?
Start small. Plan big. Keep growing.
Ready to transform your mindset and productivity? Join me weekly on the Productivity Smarts podcast, where we unlock the strategies, habits, and stories that help you thrive—personally and professionally.
I am available for speaking engagements — especially on topics exploring the intersection of project management, neuroscience, and jazz music:
Click here to book me as a speaker.