The internet is rife with tips, tricks and secrets to living a longer life. Blue zones and longevity clinics are becoming increasingly popular areas of interest. Centenarians go viral for sharing eyebrow-raising beliefs of what has kept them living so long, like regularly drinking alcohol or eating a clove of garlic a day. 

But what do the experts say? 

Simply being positive likely doesn’t have as big of an impact as people feel it does, David Watson, Ph.D., a former professor of personality psychology at the University of Notre Dame, told CNBC. 

“I think the effects of just being positive are overstated,” Dr. Watson said, though he agreed there is some benefit to being positive and agreeable. 

“Psychologically healthy people have a quicker recovery time,” he added. “They are able to tell themselves, ‘This is not that big of a deal.’ They find ways to bring themselves back into that equilibrium.” 

But for the most impact, those looking to boost their longevity should focus on one simple thing: Being conscientious, Dr. Watson said. 

Being organized, disciplined and focused on taking care of yourself offers more concrete habits to live a longer life, he added. 

A 2011 study in Health Psychology found a significant link between longevity and conscientiousness. Survey-takers who researchers identified as more organized and systematic were found to be less likely to suffer from physical and mental health conditions and more likely to regularly exercise, eat well, avoid consuming lots of alcohol and drugs, and steer clear of reckless driving and getting involved in violent or dangerous activities. 

“Conscientious people don’t do stupid things so they have lower rates of accidents and better health behaviors,” Dr. Watson said.