Did a friend forward this to you? You can subscribe here.

Est Read Time: 3:30

February is Heart Month—Netflix might be celebrating with Love is Blind, but I’m focused on a different love story: how we keep doing what we love today—when we’re 80. The key? Protecting our hearts.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the world’s #1 killer, but here’s the shift I love amplifying: awareness matters, but prevention is where the power is. Some of the most effective strategies for heart health aren’t complicated—they’re small, everyday actions that integrate seamlessly into our lives. And the best part? They boost both our well-being and productivity.

Earlier this month, my parents (late 60s/late 70s) traveled to India with friends—because they can. They’ll never retire (nor do they want to), but they’re spending this chapter traveling, laughing… and reminding their overly-worried kids that they grew up in a third-world country and, as my mom put it, “have stronger immune systems than you.” Noted, Mom. More importantly? I want that kind of vitality for myself.

Because in leadership, just like in health, longevity isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about playing smart. The small, intentional choices we make today fuel our energy, joy, and impact for years to come.

Here are three ways to lead with heart—today and for the long haul:

1) Move More: We know each other too well. You saw this coming.

How It Helps Today: Even small bursts of movement boost creativity, sharpen mental clarity, and enhance connection—helping you show up stronger for your next 1:1, client meeting, or big decision.

How It Helps Tomorrow: Regular physical activity lowers the risk of CVD and extends healthspan. And good news—it doesn’t have to be vigorous to be effective. Move in ways that bring you joy so you can keep enjoying life longer.

Try This: 1) See “Dilagence on the Move” for desk-friendly exercises. 2) Stand up, stretch and/or walk between meetings or every hour (bonus: use a dictation app to capture thoughts aloud).

2) Laugh (Seriously, Though): Who said doing the right thing can’t be joyful? 

How It Helps Today: It’s no coincidence that having a good laugh somehow relieves the tightness in your chest from a day of back-to-backs or reading the latest headlines. So quite literally consider having a go-to laugh for releasing tension and clearing your head for better problem-solving and communication.

How It Helps Tomorrow:  Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, which can increase risk for heart attack and stroke. Thus, stress management is a critical CVD prevention strategy. 

Try This: Consider a “joy channel” just for laughs. I literally have a separate Instagram account filled only with things that crack me up (like this story). I check it for a few minutes when stress creeps in. Or, have a go-to clip (your favorite stand-up bit, a ridiculous meme) to reset your mood on demand.

3) Mind Your Posture: Good posture isn’t just about confidence.

How It Helps Today: Slouching drains energy and dampens your mood. Research shows sitting upright boosts focus, increases energy, and improves breathing—helping you tackle your inbox or spark your next big idea.

How It Helps Tomorrow: Poor posture isn’t just a back problem—it can impact your heart. Chronic slouching contributes to stress and poor circulation, both affecting cardiovascular health. Sitting tall today is an investment in long-term well-being.

Try This: Set posture check reminders—when you hear a Slack ping, see a red light, or take a sip of coffee, roll your shoulders back and sit tall. Or place a sticky note on your desk: “Head up, shoulders back!” for an easy nudge.

Longevity isn’t luck. It’s a series of small choices that add up. And the best time to start? Right now.

One Simple Thing

End your day with gratitude. Studies show that gratitude reduces stress and improves heart health. Before bed, write down (or just think of) one moment from the day that brought you joy. Small habits, big impact. 

I’ll start. I’m grateful that you are on Team Dilagence. Literally couldn’t do this work without you.

Dilagence on the Move 

I joined New York Living PIX11 to share how movement boosts focus at work—and protects your heart. Check out the segment for easy ways to stay active during your day.

Dose of Dilan

How I Remind Myself to Move—No Phone Needed:

These are game-changers. Keep one on your desk. I use the 5-minute for holding stretches, but even 1 minute of movement—squats, stretching, standing—makes a difference.

What I’m Watching (Besides Love is Blind):

White Lotus Season 3—I've already got some strong guesses about what’s coming. Either way, Thailand is now officially on my to-do list.

Where I’m Going for the First Time:

The Rocky Mountains. I’ve never seen a moose—it’s time. The most adventurous part? I’m leaving my laptop behind.

What I Renewed: 

My CPR certification. Two hands on a chest saves life. Cool thing - anyone can get certified.

Thanks for reading. Follow me on LinkedIn for more health hacks and habits to boost your performance. Spread the word - Please share this newsletter with one person this week or invite them to subscribe here