If We Think We Can

I love this quote from Tao Porchon-Lynch, a yoga master, dancer, author, and one of the world’s oldest yoga instructors:

When I wake up in the morning, I know that it’s going to be the best day of my life. I never think about what I can’t do!”

In 1926, when Tao was eight, she saw young yoga practitioners exercising on a beach in Pondicherry, French India. Inspired by their movements, she said she “wanted to do the amazing things they did with their bodies” — even though her aunt counseled her against it. Her aunt declared, “yoga is for men.”

Tao went on to become a professional yoga instructor, and at age 93, she received the Guinness World Record title as the world's oldest yoga teacher. At the time, she said, “I’m going to teach yoga until I can't breathe anymore." Tao continued teaching yoga until her peaceful passing at age 101.

What We Can Learn From Tao

Quite simply, mindset matters. Our mindset plays a decisive role in shaping what we can and cannot achieve. This becomes increasingly important as we age, when the realities of the passing years may limit what we think we can do. Whether it’s lifting weights, taking a Zumba class, moving into a new community, or embarking on an international trip, our mindset is one of the strongest predictors of success. If we believe our abilities can develop with effort, we are more likely to push through obstacles, try new things, and expand our capabilities.

Never Too Old

We are never too old (or too young!) to learn, grow, achieve, and make a difference. Take a moment today to embrace who you are and to celebrate the possibilities ahead.