The Trouble With Advice

I was recently asked what I had learned about life. At 89 years old, you would think the answer would come easily. But the truth is, I wasn’t sure what to say.

I’ve learned from some of my mistakes. I’ve also repeated others more times than I care to admit. If there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s that experience doesn’t make you perfect. Sometimes it simply gives you a better understanding of your imperfections.

That’s why I’ve always been cautious about giving advice. Advice is a little like a new suit. It may fit me perfectly, but that doesn’t mean it will fit someone else.

Still, there are a few things I’ve come to believe.

One is that the people around you matter. Negative people have a way of draining your energy and clouding your judgment. On the other hand, good people challenge you, encourage you, and help you become a better version of yourself. I was fortunate to have many of those people in my life.

I’ve also learned the value of listening. When someone wise shares an idea or a lesson, pay attention. You don’t have to follow every piece of advice you receive, but you can almost always learn something from it. In the end, common sense remains one of life’s most reliable guides.

The same is true when it comes to money. Most people work hard for what they earn. I’ve seen too many people spend beyond their means trying to keep pace with others. The comparison is rarely worth the cost. Saving for the future may not be exciting, but it provides something many people spend their lives searching for: peace of mind.

If I’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that life doesn’t necessarily get easier. But the choices become clearer. The people you trust, the habits you build, the decisions you make day after day—those are the things that shape your path.

Whether or not that’s good advice, I’ll leave for others to decide.