As we grow older, we inevitably collect valuable wisdom. Looking back on our younger days, many of us think, “If only I had known then what I know now.”
We can't rewind the clock, but we can always take advice from those who are older, wiser, and more accomplished. Here are 30 crucial pieces of advice that most people grasp far too late in life.
Everything fades with time. Credit: Shutterstock
30. Nothing Lasts Forever
Everything in life is fleeting. No matter how desperately we wish for something to endure, it will eventually come to an end. Even a couple married for decades will eventually part when one spouse passes away. The same holds true for pets, careers, and anything else we cherish. When we're young, it's far too easy to take things for granted. Remember that your time with parents, friends, and family is limited.
Eventually, time escapes us. Credit: Shutterstock
The insight that “everything is temporary” also applies to negative experiences. Even if you're enduring one of the toughest moments of your life, it too will pass. By reminding ourselves that all things end, it becomes easier to release what troubles us.
People tire of hearing you grumble. Credit: Shutterstock
29. Quit Complaining
Countless people gripe about trivial daily matters—weather, traffic, the quality of last night's dinner. If you're reading this, you likely live in a developed country, have internet access, and are educated. That means you already have far more than many others around the globe, and plenty to be grateful for. By concentrating on gratitude rather than complaining, your life will improve dramatically.
Sometimes we complain about things that don't matter. Credit: Shutterstock
Also, put yourself in someone else's position. Do you enjoy hearing others complain? Nobody does. We just want to tell them it's not that bad or to move on. Try to see things from another perspective. If you truly can't get past something, write it down on paper. This allows you to vent while also viewing your problem from an outside angle.
Unfortunately, fairness isn't guaranteed. Credit: Shutterstock
28. Life Isn't Fair
Sadly, life isn't equitable. Someone might cheat their way to success, cut in line, or escape punishment for a crime. We can either let this bring us down or accept it as a reality. There's no point in getting upset over it. In fact, karma may eventually catch up with that person down the road.
Sometimes people have an edge that's not deserved. Credit: Shutterstock
With that in mind, you can avoid wasting energy lamenting unfairness. Instead, embrace life's inequities and focus on what has gone right for you. Many elderly individuals would likely offer this advice if asked what unnecessary things they wasted energy on.
Embrace life free from fear. Credit: Shutterstock
27. Live Without Fear
It's pointless to be afraid of things and let them hold us back from pursuing what we want. Most of the time, fear exists only in our minds. Once we actually take action, the fear lasts only a moment and we're fine. Think about every time you dreaded getting a shot at the doctor's office. The fear of needles is often more painful than the needle itself.
Fear can prevent you from achieving amazing things. Credit: Shutterstock
During a speech, Will Smith said, “The problem with fear is that it lies. The daily confrontation with fear has become a real practice with me.” He then shared a story about going skydiving with friends. The night before, he could barely sleep from terror. He spent the entire day feeling scared, right up until the moment he jumped. Then he realized there was nothing to fear and that it was actually an incredible experience. It taught him that fear is a waste of time—it doesn't serve you.
Family will always outrank friends. Credit: Shutterstock
26. Family Comes Before Friends
When we're young, our friends mean everything. We'd rather skip family dinner to spend a Friday night out. But in the end, your family loves you unconditionally. Friends come and go as we graduate, change jobs, and end relationships. But family is forever.
Always make time for family whenever possible. Credit: Shutterstock
We're not suggesting you abandon friendships. There always needs to be a balance between friends and family. But never take your family for granted or treat them as second-best.
As the saying goes, money doesn't buy happiness. Credit: Shutterstock
25. Money Can't Buy Happiness
“Money can't buy happiness” is an old saying you've likely heard. Money can solve many problems—plenty of issues would disappear if you had enough cash to throw at them. However, money cannot purchase love, true friendship, or constant happiness. Even the wealthiest people have bad days and feel disappointed or upset about events in their lives.
Love is not for sale. Credit: Shutterstock
A study found that money makes you significantly happier—but only up to an annual income of $105,000. Beyond that six-figure salary, happiness levels plateau. Extra material possessions truly don't make a difference. In fact, earning more money often means more responsibilities, which adds stress. As The Notorious B.I.G. said, “More money, more problems.”
If you think your partner will change, you're likely in for disappointment. Credit: Shutterstock
24. Don't Try to Change Others
In the United States, 50% of marriages end in divorce. While there are many reasons couples split, a leading cause is that people no longer feel compatible with their partner. Some admit that when they married, they had plenty of doubts about their spouse's personality. They hoped that someday they would outgrow bad or immature behavior. Others believed that with enough love, they could change or “fix” their partner's issues.
Never expect a relationship to resolve someone's problems. Credit: Shutterstock
In reality, most people don't change who they are, even as years pass. It takes extensive therapy or a near-death experience to shake someone enough to change. So if you're getting married, you must be prepared to spend the rest of your life with the person as they are right now. No matter how much you love someone or want to fix them, change must come from within. Instead of trying to change someone, find someone who is already great as they are.
Always treat yourself with dignity. Credit: Shutterstock
23. Love and Respect Yourself
If people treat you poorly, remind yourself that it's because they have a preconceived notion of who you are. That doesn't define your true self, and you can still change your circumstances. Start by loving and respecting yourself. Forgive yourself for the past and begin treating yourself like the person you want to become.
Remember to love yourself, always. Credit: Shutterstock
Imagine moving to a new city where nobody knows you. You could present yourself as the person you truly feel you are inside. These new people would have no history of your past mistakes. They would judge you based on who you are in the moment. Remember that at the end of the day, you are the only person who will be with you for your entire life. You might as well love yourself.
Live consciously, not on autopilot. Credit: Shutterstock
22. Don't Sleepwalk Through Life
Warren Buffett famously said, “Look for the job you would take if you didn't need a job. Don't sleepwalk through life. You really want to be doing what you love doing.” This is excellent advice. Some people wake up, go to work, come home, and zone out in front of the TV. That's sleepwalking through life.
Remember to savor life rather than let it pass by. Credit: Shutterstock
Instead of just going through the motions every day, start doing things you feel passionate about. Remember that you only get one life to do what you want. We're not suggesting you quit your job and abandon everything, but try to incorporate more of your “bucket list” items into each day.
People are not gossiping about you as often as you imagine. Credit: Shutterstock
21. People Aren't Thinking About You As Much As You Think
Some people go through life feeling self-conscious, afraid that others are staring at them, judging their clothes, or many other things. In reality, most people are just thinking about themselves. Ask yourself what occupies your mind most of the time. Probably 80 to 90% of your thoughts are about your own life. So why would others waste their time worrying about you?
There's no reason to constantly fret about what others think. Credit: Shutterstock
This isn't meant to make you feel bad. Rather, it should alleviate some daily anxiety. If you're worried that people are thinking negatively about you, chances are they're not thinking about you at all. Realizing this can be very helpful in overcoming anxiety.
Continuous learners tend to be more fulfilled. Credit: Shutterstock
20. Never Stop Learning
Some people take the easy route through life. Those who hated school are eager to drop out or graduate. After school, they immediately want to start working and have no interest in learning anything new. These people often become close-minded. Without curiosity, you miss out on so many amazing and interesting things.
You can learn something new at any age. Credit: Shutterstock
If you truly want to succeed in life and be as enriched as possible, you should never stop learning. No matter how good you become at something, that doesn't mean you know everything. In fact, people who pretend to know everything often come across as pompous and ignorant. Always stay curious and try to learn something new every day.
You need to know where you're headed in life. Credit: Shutterstock
19. Know Your Destination
Some life paths are very clear-cut. For example, if you want to become a doctor, you go to college, then medical school, then complete a residency at a hospital. You're a doctor. But for non-traditional career paths, like being a YouTuber, there's no formula that everyone can follow. Many people have big hopes and dreams but give up because they get caught up in the “how.” Without knowing every step, it can be scary, and many give up before they even start.
Seeing the goal matters more than the route. Credit: Shutterstock
Instead of worrying so much about how to get from point A to point B, at least figure out where your destination is. Focus on that intently and try to manifest it into reality. Soon enough, you'll begin to see opportunities around you that help you achieve your goal. And as time goes on, you'll be able to realize your dreams as long as you never give up trying.
Saving now pays off later. Credit: Shutterstock
18. The Sacrifices You Make Now Will Pay Off in the Future
Nowadays, millennials often get criticized for eating out too much or buying expensive coffee at Starbucks. It can be hard to imagine how small sacrifices today can pay off in the long run. But in reality, small changes truly add up. That's why so many people are adopting the FI/RE movement—Financial Independence, Retire Early. They live extremely frugally so they can retire in their 40s.
Shopping at thrift stores can be fun and helps save money. Credit: Shutterstock
On the flip side, if you choose to completely indulge in the present, you might end up with nothing when it's time to retire. Take a step back and evaluate whether you're truly spending your money wisely. Start by making a budget, and it will become clear how much you need to cut back if you want a comfortable future.
Remember that happiness is a decision. Credit: Shutterstock
17. Happiness Is a Choice
No matter how tough things get, happiness is always a choice. Obviously, this is easier said than done. You can't turn off sadness or anger in a split second just because you choose to be happy. But you can choose how long you dwell in sadness. If you struggle with depression, try to “build a ladder.” Start at the smallest rung by thinking of something happy and positive. Keep going by adding more and more reasons to be happy. Eventually, you'll find yourself in a better mood.
Smiling can actually make you feel better. Credit: Shutterstock
Happiness can't be given to us by a relationship or money. It comes from within. Remember, there are plenty of rich and married people who feel miserable about their lives. Try to see the world as “glass half full,” and things will begin to improve.
Vegetables are essential for good health. Credit: Shutterstock
16. Take Care of Your Health
Most people in the United States coast through life eating and drinking whatever they want. Suddenly, they're diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Finally, they start caring about eating right, but by then it's often too late.
Green juice is a great way to pack in daily nutrients. Credit: Shutterstock
If you need a reality check, watch the documentary Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead. It's about an Australian investor named Joe Cross. He became a millionaire in his 20s as a stockbroker by working nonstop and eating and drinking to excess. Eventually, he became obese and developed a rare disease that made his life miserable. He decides to go on a journey to see if he can lose weight and change his perspective on food. If you haven't seen it, it's a great movie.
Keep expectations in check. Credit: Shutterstock
15. Curb Your Expectations
Many arguments in relationships stem from one person's expectations of the other. This also happens in the workplace, friendships, and many other situations. As long as you place high expectations on another person, you're bound to be disappointed. Remember that the other person can't read your mind. They don't know what you expect from them. Even if they did, they have no obligation to obey your commands. You only have control over yourself, not others. So while it's okay to have high expectations of yourself, doing so for things beyond your control only leads to disappointment.
Sometimes we need to lower our expectations of others. Credit: Shutterstock
For example, there's something called “Paris Syndrome,” which mainly affects Japanese tourists. People in Japan have built up their idea of Paris so much that they truly believe it's the “city of love.” They expect to arrive in France and magically find their one true love. But as soon as they get there, they realize it's just a city. They become so incredibly disappointed that it makes them physically sick. Compare that to someone who visits Paris with zero expectations. They're far more likely to have a great time because they'll enjoy whatever happens.
Always be yourself, even if that means being a bit odd. Credit: Shutterstock
14. Don't Let Fear of Embarrassment Stop You From Being Yourself
Whenever you try something new, there's always a chance you might embarrass yourself. Some people are terrified to let friends and co-workers know about their guilty pleasures. At the end of the day, other people's opinions of you don't matter. You only have one life to live, so you should live it any way you want.
Don't hesitate to enjoy what brings you joy. Credit: Shutterstock
In fact, if you start revealing more of your true self, you might find that more people share the same interests. Live a genuine life, and you're more likely to find others doing the same.
Possessions won't make you happy. Credit: Shutterstock
13. Material Things Don't Matter
So many people try to get rich so they can buy whatever they want. But at the end of the day, these are just things. Think back to moments when you desperately wanted something you now own. Maybe getting it was exciting, but did those material things really make you a happier person?
Luxury goods can be over the top. Credit: Shutterstock
Instead of focusing on buying items from your wishlist, create a bucket list of accomplishments. You may need to spend money to achieve those goals. In the end, you'll feel far more accomplished by investing in fulfilling your dreams rather than buying new things.
Dawn always follows darkness. Credit: Shutterstock
12. Eventually, Things Get Better
No matter how terrible a situation may be, there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. Something can feel so painful that we can't imagine being happy again. This can lead to depression, especially if we don't have good ways to cope with bad times.
Remember that things improve. Credit: Shutterstock
Humans can get through anything, even significant life events like a breakup, divorce, or death in the family. People are incredibly strong and resilient. So the next time you feel awful about something, remind yourself that pain is usually temporary.
Everyone cares more about themselves than others. Credit: Shutterstock
11. Everyone Is Out for Themselves
As you go through life, it's easy to feel that someone is treating you unfairly. Or you might be tricked by someone you assumed had good intentions. At the end of the day, everyone makes themselves their own top priority.
Everyone's #1 priority is themselves. Credit: Shutterstock
Everyone imagines themselves as the star of their own movie. All their experiences are from their perspective, not yours. So if you ever have trouble understanding someone else, try putting yourself in their shoes to see the situation better.
You can be in great shape even in retirement. Credit: Shutterstock
10. Age Is Just a Number
In our 20s, it often feels like a race to get things done before we turn 30. Many people feel pressured to get married, have kids, or buy a house before they become “too old.” They might also feel that if they haven't accomplished something by a certain age, it's “too late” to change their situation or try new things.
Remember that age is merely a number. Credit: Shutterstock
Age is just a number. So many people look and feel completely different at all ages. For example, there are people between 90 and 100 years old who still run marathons. You're only as old as you feel. Take good care of yourself, try to live a healthy lifestyle, and never give up on your dreams regardless of your age.
You deserve peace and to let go of grudges. Credit: Shutterstock
9. Forgive Others (Even if You Never Get an Apology)
We've all been hurt by someone. Holding grudges can be one of the most toxic things to deal with. Unfortunately, the people who hurt us most may never apologize. If you wait around hoping for someone to say sorry, that moment likely never comes.
Forgive others for past wrongs. Credit: Shutterstock
Remind yourself that forgiveness is about giving you peace of mind. By forgiving someone for what they've done, you free yourself from ever having to think about them again. Maybe someday that person will come back and try to talk to you. You can decide then if you're willing to trust them again. More often than not, you may not be able to trust them, but at least you can talk to them from a calm and level-headed place.
Remember to keep your ego in check. Credit: Shutterstock
8. Learn to Put Your Ego in Check
Sometimes, our pride gets in the way of many things. If we worry too much about feeding our ego, we can become too self-centered. That can hinder our success and happiness.
Control your ego if you want to get far in life. Credit: Shutterstock
Instead of waiting to speak, focus on what other people are saying and listen to their words. Respond to what they're talking about, instead of talking over them. Once you learn to communicate this way, people will like you more. You can have amazing conversations and truly connect with others.
Everyone is struggling inside. Credit: Shutterstock
7. Everyone Is Suffering
Every day, we receive messages from the media telling us we need to be happy all the time. There's a subliminal message that if you have problems or moments of sadness, something is “wrong” with you. In reality, everyone has problems. If we were more sensitive to one another, we'd get along better.
People likely face problems you can't imagine. Credit: Shutterstock
In Buddhism, there's the concept of “Dukkha,” the understanding that everyone suffers in some way. Whether it's stress from work, relationships, paying bills, or anything else, everyone has something going on behind the scenes. By realizing that everyone is suffering and going through something, it becomes easier to let things roll off your shoulders.
Take a deep breath and be present. Credit: Shutterstock
6. Be Present in the Moment
Far too many people forget to be present. They go through life so zoned out that they forget to “stop and smell the roses.” Have you ever driven somewhere and then thought, “How did I get here?” That means you need to be more present.
Remember to appreciate the nature around you. Credit: Shutterstock
Some people swear by practicing “mindfulness.” You may need to start meditating or simply paying more attention to things around you. In the book A New Earth, author Eckhart Tolle suggests looking at a tree as if you were a newborn baby. You have no words for “tree” or “flower”; you simply observe and take in the sight. By observing the world with this youthful curiosity, you'll find yourself becoming more present.
It's okay to ask for help. Credit: Shutterstock
5. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Many people are afraid to ask for help because they don't want to appear weak. Or they want the pride of accomplishing something on their own. Unfortunately, if you're too stubborn to ask for help, it can hold you back from succeeding. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you really need it.
People can go farther in life when they help each other. Credit: Shutterstock
Instead of seeing you as weak, your friends and family will most likely be proud of you for showing vulnerability. And by opening yourself up to be more vulnerable, you might be surprised that others are willing to share their struggles too. This can bring people much closer.
Traveling the world is always worth the money. Credit: Shutterstock
4. It's Always Worthwhile to See the World
Some people think traveling the world is something you do as a young college student without many responsibilities. No matter how much you've traveled, there's always a part of the world you've never explored.
Traveling the world can be incredibly rewarding. Credit: Shutterstock
Travel will never be a waste of money because it gives you a new perspective on life. If you're ever trying to decide between taking a trip or staying home, always go for the trip. In fact, most Americans don't take enough vacation time compared to the rest of the world. You might find that when you come back, you'll be refreshed and able to work twice as hard as before.
Always be truthful. Credit: Shutterstock
3. Say What You Mean to Say
Many people hold back from opening up about their true emotions because they fear negative repercussions. Sure, you might say something foolish and feel like an idiot. But at least you were honest with your feelings.
Do not hold back from saying what needs to be said. Credit: Shutterstock
There's nothing more tragic than regretting things left unsaid. You might spend the rest of your life thinking, “I wish I had told them that I loved them.” Holding back from saying what you really mean is often why people lose the ones they love. You never know if the other person feels the same way. And if they don't, at least you know the truth, and you can move on knowing you gave it your best shot.
Remember to enjoy life while it lasts. Credit: Shutterstock
2. Remember to Enjoy Life
This advice sounds very simple, but most of us truly need to be reminded to enjoy our lives. As we get older, we're expected to be very serious and professional. Suddenly, we have tons of responsibility weighing us down.
Try to have as much fun as you can. Credit: Shutterstock
Even if you have a lot to worry about, it's still important to enjoy life to the fullest. If you haven't taken a break in a long time, go on a vacation. Or at least go somewhere fun in your local area. Life is meant to be so much more than work.
Enjoy life for as long as it lasts. Credit: Shutterstock
1. A Lifetime Is Not Really That Long
Last, and certainly not least, life is unfortunately not as long as we think. When you consider that we sleep at least eight hours per night, work eight hours a day, and commute, that leaves very little time to truly be ourselves. And as we get older, time seems to fly by faster.
You can die at any age, so count your blessings while you can. Credit: Shutterstock
Remember to hold on to your precious moments and never take life for granted. Go after your dreams and live without regret.
