“20 Things Successful People Wish They Had Known When They Were Younger” — Thought Processes That Will Change Your Life
Have you ever thought, “I wish I could go back to 10 years ago with the knowledge I have now?” The idea of doing things differently or realizing something earlier is something that crosses everyone’s mind at some point. However, it often happens after we’ve lost something or made a mistake. How can we avoid those regrets and realize what’s important sooner? The best way is to ask those who have lived longer, experienced more, and achieved more. If we can adopt their way of thinking now, we won’t need to make unnecessary mistakes.
In this blog post, we’ll share insights from successful people who have talked about the 20 things they wish they had known when they were younger. These are life-changing pieces of advice that will provide clarity, direction, and practical wisdom to help you avoid common pitfalls and live a more fulfilled life. Let’s dive into these powerful lessons.
1. Everything is Your Responsibility, Not Others’
It’s easy to blame your circumstances, your upbringing, your friends, or your boss for where you are in life. However, success comes from taking full responsibility for everything that happens to you. The moment you stop blaming others and start taking ownership of your situation, you begin to take control of your life. Only then can you begin to change things for the better.
Recognizing that everything in your life is your responsibility is the first step towards change. No matter what life throws your way, your ability to change your mindset and take action will determine your success.
2. The Only True Failure is Not Trying
The most common form of failure isn’t failing at something, but rather not trying at all. People often fear failure, but successful people know that failure is a stepping stone to growth. It’s only through taking action, failing, and learning that you improve.
Don’t fear failure. Instead, fear not taking any action at all. You can always learn from mistakes, but inaction is where real failure lies.
3. You Have to Sacrifice Something to Gain Something
To get what you want, you need to let go of something else. The ideal life you envision is not a continuation of your current situation. Whether it’s time, relationships, or your current environment, something must be sacrificed to make room for something greater. Successful people often go through periods of solitude or discomfort before achieving their dreams.
While sacrifice can be tough, it’s essential for growth. Embrace it and know that something better is waiting for you on the other side.
4. Being Ordinary Is Overrated
There is no such thing as “ordinary.” Everyone has something unique about them, yet many people spend their lives trying to blend in and be just like everyone else. The truth is, the most successful people often stand out because they dare to be different.
If you want to succeed, stop trying to fit in. The key to success is embracing your uniqueness and being willing to stand out, even if it means going against the grain.
5. When Things Feel Too Easy, Push Yourself Harder
If things feel too easy, it’s a sign that you’re in your comfort zone. The comfort zone is where growth stops. When things feel too comfortable, it’s time to push yourself further. The greatest achievements come when you step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself to grow.
Push yourself harder when things are easy. Your real potential lies outside of your comfort zone, and pushing through it will help you achieve more than you ever thought possible.
6. No One is Coming to Save You
No one is going to magically come and fix your problems. You must take action and responsibility for your life. It’s tempting to wait for someone to help you, but successful people know that they must be the ones to take the first step. Don’t wait for a savior—take the initiative and start making decisions that will change your life.
The power to change your life lies within you, and waiting for someone else to do it is a wasted opportunity.
7. Instant Gratification Will Destroy You
The allure of instant gratification—whether through social media, gaming, junk food, or gambling—can be destructive. While these things provide temporary pleasure, they hinder long-term success. Your brain can’t differentiate between genuine happiness and quick, shallow pleasure.
Smartphone addiction, in particular, is a major barrier to success. Use your phone only when necessary, and break free from the chains of instant gratification. Focus on things that bring lasting fulfillment, not temporary satisfaction.
8. Your Health is the Foundation of Everything
Nothing can replace the importance of health. Whether it’s physical or mental, your well-being is the foundation for everything else in life. You can’t work toward your goals if you’re physically or mentally drained. Taking care of your health is the first step in being able to achieve your dreams.
Prioritize your health now, because only when you’re healthy can you truly give your best to everything else.
9. No One Is Watching You as Much as You Think
Many people waste too much time worrying about what others think. The truth is, most people are too busy with their own lives to scrutinize yours. Once you realize this, you’ll feel more freedom to live your life on your terms.
Stop worrying about others’ opinions. They are likely not paying as much attention to you as you think. Focus on what matters to you, and do what makes you happy.
10. Don’t Let Limiting Beliefs Control You
Limiting beliefs are often hard to see because they exist in your subconscious. You may think you’re not good enough, capable enough, or smart enough, but these are just thoughts, not facts. Pay attention to your thoughts and challenge the negative ones.
Instead of allowing your mind to limit you, seek out positive, empowering thoughts. When you change your mindset, you change your reality.
11. Genius Is a Result of Perseverance, Not Talent
People often attribute success to talent or genius, but in reality, most “geniuses” are just incredibly persistent and hardworking. Talent can only take you so far, but perseverance and continuous effort lead to true mastery.
Don’t worry about whether or not you have talent—what matters is how much effort and consistency you put in.
12. Have the Courage to Say No
Learning to say no is crucial. Whether it’s personal requests or work demands, you need the courage to protect your time and energy. Saying no is not selfish; it’s necessary for your well-being and growth.
By setting boundaries and saying no when needed, you can prioritize what truly matters to you.
13. If You Have to Explain Yourself, You’re Not That Important
You don’t need to constantly explain your worth or achievements to others. If you find yourself doing this, it might be because you feel like you need validation. True confidence comes from within—don’t rely on others’ approval to define your value.
Focus on achieving your goals and let your actions speak for themselves.
14. Stop Reading, Start Learning
Reading is important, but it’s not enough. The purpose of reading should be to learn, not just to consume information. Apply what you read in real-life situations, and turn learning into action.
Make learning a part of your daily routine, but focus on how you can apply that knowledge to create change in your life.
15. Leave People Who Treat You Poorly
Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. If someone treats you poorly, remove them from your life. You don’t owe anyone your time or energy if they’re not adding value to your life.
Seek out people who treat you with kindness and respect, and cut out toxic influences from your circle.
16. Help Yourself Before Helping Others
Before you can help others, you need to make sure that you are okay first. Taking care of yourself should be your top priority, because only then can you help others effectively.
Take the time to ensure your own well-being and safety before offering your support to others.
17. Don’t Dwell on Problems, Find Solutions
It’s easy to get caught up in complaining about problems, but that doesn’t lead to solutions. Instead of dwelling on issues, focus on understanding the cause and finding ways to solve them.
Move from worry to action, and you’ll see problems transform into opportunities.
18. Do for Others What You Want Them to Do for You
Instead of waiting for others to treat you in a certain way, start by treating them the way you want to be treated. Give without expecting anything in return, and you’ll attract the positivity you seek.
The law of reciprocity works—when you give, you receive.
19. There Will Always Be Problems
Life will never be without challenges. Accept this fact now. The key is to solve the problems that come your way and keep moving forward. Every time you solve a problem, you grow stronger and more capable.
Embrace challenges, because solving them is what life is all about.
20. It’s Never Too Late to Change
No matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to change. Don’t let the idea that it’s too late stop you from making decisions that will improve your life. Today is the youngest you’ll ever be—take action now and start making the changes you’ve been putting off.
Start now, and your future self will thank you.
Final Thoughts
These 20 pieces of advice from successful people offer valuable insights into how to live a more fulfilling and successful life. It’s not about waiting for the right moment or for someone to come save you—it’s about taking control of your life and making the decisions that will shape your future.
If you’re ready to change your life, start implementing these lessons today. Each small step you take will lead you toward a life of fulfillment and success.