Things I have learned in my old age

I am old now, compared to how young I used to be. I often remark to myself, now, “wow, I’m not as young as I used to be, and I used to be so young.” I am 31, so I have the experience of being an adult for over a decade. When I think back to my decade-younger self, I think, “I was so young.” Of course back then, I was thinking, “I am of a timeless age of eternal wisdom. Of course one day I will be much wiser, but I am fairly wise right now.”

Not that age necessarily has anything to do with wisdom, or even being a grown-up.

Ten years ago, most successful people were older than me, so it was plausible to believe that they were successful because they were older than me. Now, ten years older, many very successful people are my age, or younger than me. I had the revelation the other day that this must be what it’s like to be my parents’ age! So many people are younger and more successful than me.

Now I’m seeing that while age may give you a leg-up in terms of gaining experiences that make you successful, it is certainly not the only ingredient.