Older Adults Are Sharing The Significant Lessons They Wish They'd Learned Sooner, And Younger Folks Should Take Notes
It's everyone's first time living life, meaning not everyone has it all figured out. Recently, Redditor u/Kafkaesque92 asked older adults of the Reddit community to share the lessons that took them way too long to learn or realize, and as a Gen Z'er, I'm taking some serious notes:
1."Knowing how to make money and manage money are two different things. You can make all the money in the world, but if you can't manage it, it's a futile effort."
—Big-Intention8500
2."That I don't have to do what everyone else is doing to be successful. My definition of success has more to do with peace and happiness. When I realized that I could do my job from home, and be damn good at it, my peace and happiness quotient went sky high. It took me MANY years to realize that."
—iheartmycats820
3."That some people just enjoy being mean. They seemingly get a charge out of it, and it has nothing to do with you. It took me a long time to realize that there are people who just straight-up enjoy hurting others, for no personal gain other than to be mean."
—No_Distribution7701
4."Don't share sensitive things with people who are not going to give you the reaction you need or deserve."
—shoppygirl
5."Most of your friends are really just acquaintances, and that's okay."
—Imaginary-List-4945
Related: 19 "Body Changes" That Clearly Indicate A Person Is Not Young Anymore, And I'm Not Ready For This Reality
6."Not everyone has your best interest in mind. Even family members will take advantage and screw you over in a flash."
—LolaLaser1355
7."You don't need the best car you can afford. A Toyota gets you to the grocery store exactly the same as a BMW."
—Old-Guy1958
8."People will treat you the way you allow them to."
—LonJohnson
9."'Live in the moment' is a cliché for a reason. My whole childhood, there was a poem in my bathroom about living in the moment that I often read and thought I understood. But smelling the flowers, tasting your food, and living moment to moment is really the way to inner peace."
—Equivalent_Grab_511
Related: "This Actually Isn't A Necessity": Millions Of People Watched A Mom Explain How Not Buying This Super Common Household Product Has Saved Her Family Thousands
10."It is not my responsibility to fix what I did not break. It only took me 52 years to learn that lesson."
—OperaGlasses1
11."Don't set yourself on fire to keep someone else warm."
—Kizzy33333
12."You really can't accomplish great things by yourself. As hard as I've tried and as much as I've believed it was 'me against the world,' my greatest accomplishments required other people to help me, support me, and make some of their own sacrifices. And that's a big reason why you need to choose your friends wisely."
—HustlaOfCultcha
13."That I actually DO need to fix my complex childhood trauma. It doesn't just automatically go away by being a good person."
—forgiveprecipitation
14."When people show you who they are, believe them."
—GoodFriday10
15."Doctors can help, but you know your body best, and you know your child the best, too. If your doctor won't listen to your concerns and observations, find one who will."
—Old_Butterscotch2914
16."Great sex doesn't mean it's love."
—KelK9365K
17.Lastly: "I've only just learned — at age 48 — that I really, really, really should have done 'gym stuff.' You know, building strength and muscle. When you hit your mid-40s and/or start perimenopause, your body starts to turn on you. Lower back spasms. Sciatica. Random knee pains. And it's only now I'm realizing that being a bit stronger and more muscular might have either helped prevent all this, or at least sped up my recovery. I thought I was fit and healthy enough: walked everywhere, ran around after the kids, all that. But no — turns out, you really do need to do more strength and muscle work. Once I've recovered from this latest pain in the neck, I'm going to do something about it. Hopefully, it's never too late. But seriously, if you're not already doing it, start building some strength and muscle now. It'll make middle age so much easier to deal with."
—Striking-Amoeba-5563
All of these are bars, TBH. If you're an older adult, what's a lesson that took you way too long to learn or realize? Let us know in the comments, or you can drop your wisdom anonymously using the form below!
Note: Some submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Also in Goodful: 30 Absolutely Wild Medical Facts You've Probably Never Heard Of But Probably Should Hear
Also in Goodful: "I Can't Wait For This To Go Out Of Style": People Are Sharing Popular Modern Trends That Are Actually Pretty Toxic
Also in Goodful: 25 Life-Changing Habits People Added To Their Everyday Routines To Improve Their Lives For The Better
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Newsweek
2 hours ago
- Newsweek
European Employee Blasts US Work Culture in Viral Post: 'Dystopia'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A European employee has ignited a viral conversation after criticizing U.S. work culture in a Reddit post that resonated with thousands. The post, shared by user u/Disastrous_Bench_763 in the subreddit r/antiwork," quickly amassed more than 24,000 upvotes and widespread attention. "I seriously don't know how you guys do it. Watching U.S. work culture from Europe feels like watching a never-ending episode of Black Mirror, but everyone's been gaslit into thinking it's 'just how things are'," they wrote. In a detailed critique, the Reddit user pointed to the lack of federally mandated paid vacation days in the U.S., contrasting it with Europe's legal guarantee of at least 20 to 25 paid days off annually—excluding public holidays. They noted that, in Europe, disappearing for most of August is expected, while Americans feel pressured for taking even a week off. Stock image: An unhappy American worker waits on a train platform. Stock image: An unhappy American worker waits on a train platform. kieferpix/iStock / Getty Images Plus The poster also expressed disbelief over the U.S. approach to health care, noting that losing employment often means losing access to health insurance. Maternity and paternity leave were also scrutinized. The poster criticized the U.S. for forcing mothers back to work within weeks of giving birth, while Europe often offers months—sometimes up to a year—of paid leave for both parents. "Hustle. Grind. 'If you're not working 60 hours a week, you don't want it bad enough.' No thanks." The poster cited France's laws against contacting employees after hours and condemned the American glorification of burnout. Touching on job security, the user described at-will employment as "not freedom—that's instability," and concluded with a striking summary: "You've normalized corporate feudalism and called it 'the American dream.'" Experts' Insight Patrice Williams Lindo, CEO of Career Nomad, told Newsweek that U.S. work culture didn't accidentally turn dystopian—it was "built this way." After decades leading organizational change at major firms like Accenture and Deloitte, Lindo now coaches professionals on reclaiming their power in the workplace. She said American work culture is sustained by corporate lobbying, a myth of meritocracy, and a legal system that offers minimal worker protections. "Employer-tied health care ensures dependence. At-will employment ensures silence. And when hustle is marketed as identity, people fear opting out will cost them everything," Lindo added. In response to whether Europeans are right to view U.S. labor norms as exploitative, Lindo was unequivocal: "Absolutely." She added that, in most of the industrialized world, things such as rest, health care, and paid parental leave are seen as rights—not luxuries. "We've normalized exploitation so thoroughly that people thank their boss for letting them log off at 6 p.m. This isn't hustle—it's harm wrapped in a motivational quote." As for why change is so difficult in the U.S., Lindo pointed to cultural values that prize grind culture, legal frameworks such as at-will employment, and economic inequality that leaves workers too burned out or fearful to resist. Still, Lindo said she sees hope. She noted growing support for reforms like four-day workweek pilots, state-level paid leave, and a surge of interest from Gen Z and professionals recovering from layoffs. "The shift isn't just policy—it's psychological," Lindo said. "People are realizing they were never lazy—they were surviving a rigged system." When asked how workers can advocate for better conditions without risking their livelihoods, Lindo added, "Visibility is the first act of resistance." She encouraged workers to document their achievements, build community, and approach advocacy as a strategy, not just a protest. "We don't need more gratitude for crumbs. We need systems that honor our brilliance without burning us alive." Reddit Reacts Many Reddit users echoed the original post's sentiments, sharing personal stories and reflections on the perceived dysfunction of U.S. labor systems. One user recalled how admiration for the U.S. has faded over time: "I'm British and 52 years old—we grew up admiring the U.S. … My then girlfriend even investigated moving but now? I'd think twice about even visiting." Another wrote that, while American wages are sometimes higher, they come with poor value: "I can get a pretty good life in Spain for less money … and I get a much better quality of life thrown in 'for free.'" Some reflected on regrets. "I'm 55 and realizing I squandered my whole life as a creative working 'stable' jobs that provide insurance coverage … It's so depressing," said one. Others were more direct: "100% correct. And we do not have universal health care, free college, or any other European style benefits." One commenter, working for a global company, highlighted the disparity in benefits among international co-workers: "I encounter those 9 month maternity leaves, all the vacation time … the way their labor rules vary … all these benefits none of us stateside folks get." The viral Reddit post and the chorus of agreement it sparked suggest a growing awareness—and exhaustion—with the current state of American labor. From both inside and outside the system, the message is clear: while the U.S. remains a global economic force, many workers are wondering at what cost. Newsweek reached out to u/Disastrous_Bench_763 for comment via Reddit. We could not verify the details of the case. Newsweek's "What Should I Do?" offers expert advice to readers. If you have a personal dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice on relationships, family, friends, money and work, and your story could be featured on WSID at Newsweek.
Newsweek
2 hours ago
- Newsweek
Graphic Designer's Response to Woman's Request for "Free" Work Praised: "She Stormed Off"
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A freelance graphic designer's response to a woman's demand for free labor has been applauded by netizens. The graphic designer and original poster (OP), user MaraRoses_, shared their story on Reddit, explaining that although she loves working from home, she has noticed "how entitled some people are" about her time. According to her post, she had been deep in Adobe Illustrator on a full branding package—work she described as "literally the kind of job that pays my bills for the month"—when her doorbell rang repeatedly. She ignored it at first, only to receive a text that said, "I can see your car. I know you're home." It was a woman from her church, requesting a quick, free flyer design for her daughter's school club. Stock image of a woman looking annoyed at her phone. Stock image of a woman looking annoyed at her phone. Prostock-Studio/iStock/Getty Images Plus "She wanted me to just whip something up real quick because I do this stuff all day anyway," the OP wrote. "Having this kind of issue often, I just told her very politely that I was in the middle of a big client project and didn't have time, but I'd be happy to send her some free Canva templates she could use. "She shuddered, then said, 'You work from home. It's not like you have a real job. You can take a break when you want to'." 'I honestly laughed out loud' She continued, "I just blinked at her and I told her again that this is my actual job and that I don't do unpaid work, especially on a deadline. "She rolled her eyes and said, 'Wow, I didn't know helping a church member was too much to ask. It must feel nice to be so selfish.' "She stormed off, and I honestly laughed out loud. In my head, I was like, 'Helping a church member plus doing free professional work on demand with a tight time range because they feel entitled to your time. Got it'." Reddit users were quick to weigh in and share similar stories, with one remarking, "So it's selfish of you not to do your job for free, but not selfish of her to demand your time and effort for free. Yeah, not how reality works." Another added, "It seems that most of the people who say working from home is not a real job are people who don't work outside the home. "They have no concept, or refuse to believe, that people who work from home have identical responsibilities as the people who work in an office. It truly drives me nuts." "The audacity of that woman! She can go pay a tutor to help her daughter if she really needs the help," one Redditor pointed out. Working For Free Speaking to Newsweek, Branding With Camisha H CEO Camisha Henry (Agyei-Danso) explained, "Being an entrepreneur isn't easy. We give our best—day in and day out—while balancing work, family, and community, often at the expense of our own well-being. "I built my business by offering my talents freely in the beginning, but I've grown it with integrity and care, and that deserves respect. "Before asking for donated services, please consider the person's time and ask respectfully, understanding that sometimes they may have to say no. "To my fellow entrepreneurs: never feel guilty for valuing your time and your brand. You matter. Your time is precious. And the world needs your gifts." AI Interference The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) has intensified frustrations for designers, whose work is frequently mistaken for being machine-generated. In a March 2025 Newsweek article, a designer took to Reddit to post, "16 years as a graphic designer, 8 years as a photographer, ruined by AI." Their post featured their original artwork alongside comments accusing them of using AI. Ben Colman, CEO of Reality Defender, told Newsweek, "AI can now produce design work that appears professional while human designers with decades of experience are simultaneously having their authenticity questioned." Despite the challenges, this OP ended her story with humor: "I don't know if her daughter ever got that flyer. And I hope to see her in church tomorrow." Newsweek has contacted MaraRoses_ for comment via Reddit. Newsweek's "What Should I Do?" offers expert advice to readers. If you have a personal dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice on relationships, family, friends, money and work, and your story could be featured on WSID at Newsweek. To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, click here.
Newsweek
2 hours ago
- Newsweek
Owner Lets Dog in Bed—Then Discovers What She Brought With Her
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. A dog owner's cozy night with their Border collie took an unexpected turn when their pet brought more than just cuddles into the bed. In a post on Reddit, the owner shared their horror at realizing that a late-night dog walk invited ticks and ants back into their bed. Complete with photos, the post has received more than 10,000 upvotes and over 365 comments from shocked users. "My dog went outside to pee, dug up an ant hill, then promptly got back in my bed," the poster wrote, sharing the photos. "Goodness Win, why are you acting all 'woogy' and rolling around on my bed like that? … Found at least two baby ticks too. Why do I let this thing in my home?" Stock photo: A dog lies in its owner's bed. Stock photo: A dog lies in its owner's the invasion, the owner said they maintain a relaxed stance on household hygiene, noting in the comments that they don't mind about dirt and hair from their dog very much—and that their pup isn't allowed under the sheets. Still, living in the South, the poster said, comes with certain expectations. "Sometimes, living in the South means you're gonna get them," the dog owner wrote. "I spray, I caulked any cracks, kill what I see, they still come … Change the sheets weekly, wash the quilt monthly. I go camping a lot, so I guess I'm a little more desensitized to dirt and bugs than some people." Reddit users quickly chimed in with relatable tales. One user drew a parallel to their own nocturnal habits: "I can relate," they wrote. "This is like when I get up in the middle of the night when supposedly I'm using the bathroom but I'm secretly eating, and then I come back to bed with crumbs everywhere. Me and this dog, we hope to earn your forgiveness." Another recounted a memorable, but smelly, incident: "This reminds me of a Border collie we once had that got sprayed by a skunk and her reaction was to sprint inside, run into my room and roll around while sneezing in my bed …," they shared. "Took weeks to get the smell out, but in hindsight I'm a little happy that she thought my bed scent was gonna be the cure." In response to a comment questioning why the poster allows their dog in bed, the owner passionately defended their choice, despite the small creatures. "Because she's soft and snuggly and I love her," the poster said about having their dog in the bed with them. "Also, I am in possession of a washing machine and a working immune system. I don't have the same ick that you do, I don't find it gross to snuggle with the dog that I chose to get." Newsweek reached out to u/Tiny_Willingness_542 for comment via Reddit.
