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Home Blog Dr Gordon Spence | The Psychology of Healthy Ageing
18Sep

Dr Gordon Spence | The Psychology of Healthy Ageing
By Sonia Goss | Blog, Podcast, Real Talk With Outperformers, The Outperformer, Brad Eisenhuth, Gordon Spence, Psychologist, Healthy Ageing Project, Academic, Movement and Exercise | 18 Sep 2023 |

🎧 LISTEN ON SPOTIFY 🎙️LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS     🗨️WATCH ON YOUTUBE

In our latest episode of Real Talk With Outperformers, we sit down with Gordon Spence, a versatile individual whose journey has taken him from the world of finance to psychology, academia, and now to becoming an author and advocate for movement and exercise. Join us as we explore Gordon's remarkable life path and gain profound insights into the significance of physical activity and graceful aging.

Embracing Purpose: A Transition from Finance to Psychology

Gordon's odyssey of transformation began with a profound desire to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Growing up in a family deeply committed to community and social well-being—his father a clergyman and his mother a social worker—he was inspired to embark on a path of service. His psychology degree paved the way for a career in academia, where he dedicated himself to the pursuit of human performance and helping individuals unlock their full potential.

The Rediscovery of Physical Activity

At the age of 48, a pivotal moment prompted Gordon to reevaluate his life. Faced with dissatisfaction and health concerns, he made a resolute decision to reintroduce physical activity into his daily routine. His audacious goal: to run a marathon before turning 50. As he laced up his running shoes, Gordon experienced not only the psychological benefits of setting and achieving goals but also developed a fascination with the profound physiological responses of his body to exercise.

Unravelling the Paradox of Exercise

Gordon delves into the perplexing paradox of exercise—an endeavor known for its myriad health benefits, yet often perceived as a burdensome chore. He identifies three critical issues at the heart of this conundrum: the rigid nature of health promotion messages, the negative perception of exercise as a duty, and the stark mismatch between our sedentary modern lifestyle and our innate need for movement. To inspire enduring change, understanding and addressing these challenges are paramount.

Adoption of New Healthy Habits

Gordon emphasizes that adopting new healthy habits, especially later in life, is entirely possible. He encourages individuals to start with small, manageable steps and gradually build on them. Whether it's incorporating short walks, stretching routines, or enjoyable physical activities, the key is to make movement a regular part of your lifestyle. Gordon's own transformation is a testament to the power of adopting new habits and embracing a more active and fulfilling life.

Emphasis on Enjoyment and Connection

Through his extensive research and interactions while writing his books, Gordon unearthed a profound truth: people possess an inherent fascination and motivation for bodily movement. Regrettably, this intrinsic interest often gets overshadowed by life's obligations and pressures. Gordon passionately underscores the value of taking enjoyment seriously and actively seeking physical activities that resonate with one's intrinsic motivation. Moreover, he highlights the pivotal role of social connections in sustaining physical activity, providing a wellspring of support, motivation, and a profound sense of community.

Personal Fit: Finding the Right Balance

Gordon acknowledges the diversity of human experiences and attitudes toward competition. While some individuals thrive on competitive endeavors, others prefer a more relaxed approach to physical activity. The crux lies in discovering the perfect fit—a harmonious balance where individuals can engage in physical activity aligned with their preferences and, most importantly, derive genuine joy from the experience.

Gordon Spence's transformative journey and enlightening insights serve as a compass for those seeking to integrate physical activity into their lives. By prioritizing enjoyment, nurturing social connections, and engaging in activities that resonate with personal inclinations, individuals can craft enduring and fulfilling routines. Gordon's invaluable work as an author and advocate for movement and healthy aging illuminates the path to unlocking our body's potential and embracing life to the fullest.

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