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Happy birthday to everyone’s favorite Golden Girl! Television icon Betty White turns 96 years old on Wednesday— and social media couldn’t help but celebrate the legendary actress.

Earlier this month, White shared with Parade that the key to a long, healthy, and happy life is to simply enjoy it. “Focus on the positive, not the negative,” she said. “It might sound cliché, but many people choose to complain instead of saying, ‘Hey, that was great!’ It’s easy to find good things if you look for them.” She also mentioned that vodka and hot dogs—”probably in that order”—are nice too.

White, born in Illinois on January 17, 1922, has been part of the entertainment world since the early 1950s, as noted by Biography. She is best recognized for her performances in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Golden Girls.” Additionally, she has appeared in films like “The Proposal,” “You Again,” and “The Lorax.” Check out some of the birthday messages for the star on social media below:

Social Media Celebrates Betty White’s 96th Birthday

Happy Birthday, Betty White! You melt our haagen-dazs!

Posted by The Golden Girls on Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Betty White’s Life Lessons for Happiness

Betty White, the beloved icon of television and film, wasn’t just adored for her acting talent but also for her infectious zest for life. At 96 years old, she shared a few pearls of wisdom that can inspire us all to lead happier, more fulfilling lives.

1. Focus on the Positive

Betty firmly believed in the power of positivity. In an interview with Parade, she emphasized the importance of looking for the good in every situation. “Focus on the positive, not the negative,” she said. “It’s easy to find good things if you look for them.” Her ability to focus on gratitude and optimism was a cornerstone of her long and happy life.

2. Find Joy in the Little Things

Betty’s lighthearted approach to life was evident in her playful habits. She once joked that vodka and hot dogs were key to her longevity—“probably in that order.” While humor was her hallmark, her message was clear: savor life’s simple pleasures and don’t take everything too seriously.

3. Keep a Sense of Humor

As a comedic legend, Betty knew that laughter was one of life’s greatest gifts. She often reminded people of the value of humor, especially during tough times. Her quick wit and sharp humor were not only her professional trademarks but also part of her personal toolkit for happiness.

4. Stay Curious and Engaged

Betty’s career, which spanned more than seven decades, was a testament to her love of learning and adaptability. She thrived in a constantly evolving entertainment landscape, proving that staying curious and open to new experiences is vital for growth and happiness.

5. Cherish Relationships

Whether on-screen or off, Betty was known for her kindness and ability to connect with others. She cherished her relationships and valued the love and support she received from friends, family, and fans. Maintaining meaningful connections is essential for a joyful life, as she demonstrated.

6. Give Back

Betty was a passionate advocate for animal welfare, dedicating much of her time and resources to organizations that supported animals. Her generosity reminds us that giving back to causes we care about can bring immense satisfaction and purpose.

7. Age is Just a Number

Betty White defied stereotypes about aging, continuing to work and charm audiences well into her 90s. She embraced every stage of life with enthusiasm, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing your passions or making an impact.

How are you celebrating Betty White’s 96th birthday today? What’s your favorite role that the icon has played? Sound off in the comments section below!

Photo credit: Angela George, Wikimedia Commons