Qian Weichang: Longevity Through “Four Selfs”
At over ninety years old, Qian Weichang, Chancellor of Shanghai University and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is truly a legendary elder. Back in the 1960s, he was known alongside Qian Xuesen and Qian Sanqiang as one of China’s most accomplished scientists, dubbed the “Three Qians” by Premier Zhou Enlai. He is also currently the oldest university chancellor in China.
Since university days, Qian Weichang has consistently practiced physical exercise for decades. Even now, he remains unwavering in his daily routine. He says: “Don’t live off your body’s ‘capital’.”
At seventy, Qian Weichang focused on long-distance running. Now at ninety, though long-distance running is no longer suitable, he still “requires” himself to walk three thousand steps daily.
Thanks to consistent physical exercise, Qian Weichang has maintained excellent physical and mental health. Recently, Shanghai University held a “Qian Weichang Cup” college football tournament to celebrate his ninetieth birthday. Qian personally drafted the competition rules and funded the trophy. At the closing ceremony, he enthusiastically handed out awards and delivered a speech lasting over an hour about football and physical exercise.
When asked about longevity secrets, Qian believes relying solely on medicine, dietary therapy, or genetics serves only as auxiliary measures. He emphasizes: longevity fundamentally depends on oneself.
First, believe in yourself
Scientific research suggests humans could live up to 150 years. Yet most people only reach around 90. Human lifespan potential is vast—unlocked through innate and acquired qualities. To realize this, one must first have confidence. Some people misdiagnosed with cancer lose faith, their mental defenses collapse—though not seriously ill, they die. Conversely, others facing terminal illness accept reality calmly, fight bravely, and miraculously survive. Confidence is a vital source of longevity.
Second, convince yourself
The moon waxes and wanes; people face fortune and misfortune. Life’s hardships inevitably cause emotional turmoil—poor control harms longevity. Many get trapped in emotional storms, ultimately ending lives prematurely. Their tragedy lies in failing to convince themselves. Learn to convince yourself: don’t rage over losses; understand the wisdom that “good fortune harbors bad, bad fortune contains good.” Adjust your mindset during hardship, truly mastering your fate. This builds a psychological foundation for longevity.
Third, discover yourself
People easily discover the world and others, but often overlook themselves. Life holds immense untapped potential needing discovery. One who discovers themselves constantly adjusts, transforms, and renews, thus developing, growing, and strengthening. This enables overcoming difficulties, defeating illness, and ultimately achieving longevity.
Fourth, conquer yourself
Envy others, imitate others, ignore one’s social role—this is a common flaw. Only by conquering oneself can one remain unfazed by changing seasons, clouds drifting by, and face adversity, suffering, and misfortune with indomitable will—then sing boldly, “I really want to live five hundred more years!”
Finally, Qian Weichang said: Physical exercise must be persistent because it is part of life. It gives people unyielding willpower. Only with a complete life can one work diligently, innovate tirelessly, and have the energy to achieve goals—thereby contributing meaningfully to the nation.