We can learn much about living life from the older people around us. Their one distinct advantage? They have actually already lived through it! The various seasons of life, aging, parenting, fulfillment, contentment, friendships, and marriages—we can’t image what’s ahead.
In his book, 30 Lessons for Living, Karl Pillemer interviews thousands of older folks, whom he calls “The Experts,” to glean some great lessons. It’s an eye-opening book.
Most people have friends who are in the ten-year window of their own age; most often, it’s five years. Who do you sit down and talk with who is older than you? Do you have regular conversations with someone 80 or older? Or is there a young person with whom you share some wisdom?
Here’s a list of questions you can ask next time you get a chance:
What are some of the most important lessons you have learned?
What kind of advice would you have about getting and staying married?
What kind of advice would you have about raising kids?
Do you have any advice about how to succeed in a career?
Some people learn through the most challenging and stressful situations. Is that true? If so, what have you learned?
As you look back, do you have any crucial turning points or events that altered the direction of your life?
What would you say you know about a happy and successful life that you didn’t know when you were twenty?
What would you say are the central values or principles that you live by?
What have been your regrets?
Have you learned any lessons regarding staying in good health?
What advice would you give to people about growing older?
What would you tell your 25-year-old self right now?
Make some time to talk with the experts in your life! This is a great season to do it!
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5 Lessons Older Youth Workers Teach Us
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