20 Pieces of Advice From Successful 80-Year-Olds
As time passes, experience becomes the best teacher. It's interesting to examine what matters in life through the eyes of people who have lived for eight decades or more.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
People who have lived to be 80 years old have amazing stories that teach us much about meaning, resilience, and what it means to live a whole life. Their views show the good and bad things that happened to them and the values that helped them. This article looks at 20 wise words from fascinating people. They can inspire and help people who want to live a happy and successful life.
1. Put your health and happiness above all else
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“If you lose your health, you lose everything.” Many 80-year-olds talk about caring for your body, which is the foundation for everything else. Stress the importance of staying healthy and full of energy by exercising, eating right, and getting enough sleep.
2. Always be open to learning
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The spark of interest has remained strong remained strong over time. People who are already successful often stress how important it is to keep learning through books, travel, or just being open to new ideas. Life is short, like a blank sheet that begs to be painted with knowledge and adventure.
3. Value the people in your life
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“Ultimately, the individuals who inhabit your world hold the greatest significance.” Many older people think their relationships have brought them happiness and satisfaction. Your family, friends, and neighborhood deserve your time and love.
4. Show kindness to yourself
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People who have successfully hit 80 know they were often their harshest critics. Some people say that you should learn to forgive yourself, accept your flaws, and show yourself the same kindness you show others. Being kind to yourself opens the door to inner peace.
5. Take in the present
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Dwelling on the past or worrying about the future is wasteful because it distracts from the present. Many older people say to live in the present and enjoy the little things that happen every day. Because life is short, enjoy every moment.
6. Be open to the idea of failing
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Failure isn’t something to be afraid of; it can teach us valuable lessons. Older, more accomplished people say that setbacks should be seen as essential chances to grow as people. “Failure is merely a step along the journey.”
7. Be careful when you save and invest your money
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Many older people say, “I wish I had saved more when I was younger.” They stress how important it is to be responsible with money, save regularly, and learn how to spend wisely to build a safe future. Being accountable with your money will pay off in the long run.
8. Learn to be patient
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Patience is needed for success and happiness. Older people often stress the importance of patience at work, with friends and family, or when trying to reach long-term goals. Being patient lets life show itself at its own pace without extra stress.
9. Begin to accept change
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“The world is constantly evolving, and you must evolve alongside it.” Many people who are 80 years old have lived through times with significant changes in society, politics, and technology. Their advice is simple: adapting is essential for both life and success.
10. Do the things you love
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Individuals of any age who succeed often find deep fulfillment in following their interests. Do not settle for a life that does not excite you. Passion gives you a sense of meaning, which turns work into something you want to do more than just because you have to.
11. Always keep a positive attitude
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Believing in the best can change the game. A good attitude can make you healthier and more resilient and change how you see life. “Seek the silver lining in every situation” is advice that you often hear from successful people with years of experience.
12. Work hard, but not too hard
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Harmony is essential. Many seniors say that their successes weren’t due to working hard all the time but to maintaining a work-life balance. Give yourself permission to take a break, recharge, and enjoy the pleasures that life has to offer outside of work.
13. Help other people
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Many people think helping others is one of life’s best things. Helping others gives life a deep sense of meaning, whether through acts of kindness, the support of a mentor, or just being there to listen. They say, “The more you give, the more you get.”
14. Always have a good mood
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One of the best things that life can do for you is make you laugh. Many 80-year-olds who have done well over the years say that having a good sense of humor can help you get through the most challenging times. Accept that life is messy and find joy in the little things that make it unique.
15. Don’t compare
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Each person has their way. Many people who have been through it say you should focus on your trip and not look at others. It’s possible to feel bad about yourself and sad when you compare yourself to different people.
16. Stick to what you believe in
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Ideas and thoughts change quickly in this world, so you must stick to your beliefs. Many older people say you shouldn’t give up your morals to get something in the short run. Do not change the things you know to be true.
17. Have faith in your gut
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As we move through the tapestry of experience, our intuition starts to weave into the structure of what we know. Many successful people in their eighties say that following your gut usually leads to better decisions than overthinking or relying too much on outside advice. A lot of the time, your gut tells you more truth than you think.
18. Discover as much of the world as you can
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Traveling changes the way you see things in ways you never thought possible. Many experienced people say that traveling is a great way to learn about different countries, ideas, and points of view. Travel adds depth and complexity to life.
19. Enjoy the day
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They say, “Time is a treasure that keeps moving forward.” Older people tell younger people that they should enjoy the present and follow their dreams today instead of putting them off until tomorrow when they don’t know what will happen. Allow opportunities to come your way.
20. Practice being thankful every day
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Being grateful is a solid way to make yourself happy. As you get older, more and more people in your eighties believe that being thankful daily can improve your health and happiness.