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Life teaches us a plethora of lessons, many of which go in one ear and out the other. It’s not until we reach a certain age that we realize the importance of these concepts, some of which even turn out to be major game-changers.
Many people consider these to be “cheat codes” for a more fruitful existence, which they shared in various Reddit threads. These hacks range from staying hydrated to embracing ignorance about things you don’t know about.
Scroll through and feel free to save this list as a valuable resource.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
One thing that really shifted everything for me was learning to *pause* before reacting. Whether it’s an argument, a tough email, or just a stressful moment, taking even 10 seconds to breathe and not respond immediately has saved me so much unnecessary drama and regret.
RELATED:
#2
Let them - let people think whatever they want of you. Let them act how they want and then act accordingly. Let them show you who they are and then act accordingly. Detachment from expectations of how other people are supposed to be has been the biggest freedom of my life.
M M 4 months ago
Yep. Years ago I was quite frustrated about my parent’s lifestyle as they don’t take care of themselves as they should to life long and healthy, but my therapist said: “Whatever is easy for you is not necessary for others so don’t judge them by your standards”. Took me a while to process that but these days I try to stimulate them by example (like buying them bikes and then borrowing one to go for groceries when I’m there) and don’t expect that they will actually use them on other occasions. I did what I could.
#4
Live for yourself. I’m not saying you should be greedy or selfish, but live the life that YOU want to live. Not what your parents or your friends or family want.
#5
Always tell the truth.
That way, you don't have to remember the lie you told three years earlier.
Alexia 4 months ago
Almost always. Truth is relative. And I'm not referring to compulsive lying to impress people or to hide things, but to specific moments. Example: child with terminal stage leukemia. Outside, National Day celebration, military parade and loud music. The kid was upset she couldn't go to see the parade. So I told her: "that's ok, they know you can't go. And that's why there will be fireworks in the sky tonight, just for you". "For me?!" That evening, we stood on hospital's balcony to watch the fireworks. She was beaming with joy. Did I lie to her? Yes. Am I sorry for not "always telling the truth"? Absolutely not. (She passed away 2 days later.)
#6
Stop acting embarrassed if you don't know something. If you're learning a new skill or talking to someone about a topic that you don't know much about, don't say "Yeah, ok" when you have no idea what they're talking about. Let go of your ego and ask them to explain it. You'll become so much more educated once you embrace ignorance.
#7
Discipline. Doing the simple things right, everyday. This takes you miles ahead of the rest.
#8
Stop caring what other people think of me. I was a hardcore people pleaser in my 20s. I worked hard at it. Then when I turned 30 it was like a switch flipped. I still treat people with respect and kindness, but I've let go of the idea that anyone needs to like me, and therefore, validate me. I don't like everyone, why does it matter if some people don't like me?
keyboardtek 4 months ago
One still needs to cooperate with people who are completely different from us. It is a necessary trait of a civilized people. Maybe what is wrong with the country today is too many people are only doing what they want with zero consideration for anyone else.
#9
Nobody can save you, only you. When something bad is done to you, recovering from that and healing is your duty and responsibility.
It’s unfair and freeing at the same time.
Ladida Ladidal 4 months ago
At the same time; you can't save others, they'll have to do that themselves.
#10
You've got the right to make mistakes, they won't cost your life.
Pretty freeing, once you realize that you can f**k up as long as you own how it goes afterward. It's pretty much the basis for growth.
#11
Parents need to implement “Quiet Time” with their kids. No electronics for two-four hours. You can read a book, play with toys, go for a walk, etc. Just a simple reset from today’s world.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 4 months ago
Somebody needs to implement this on the whole human species, not just children.
#13
Learn to stay calm when everything is falling apart. Most people panic, but if you can think clearly in the midst of chaos, it's like having a cheat code in life. It gives you an advantage in everything: in discussions, in decisions, in difficult moments.
quentariel 4 months ago (edited)
This not might be relatable for all, but I'm good at dealing with panics. I have a panic disorder and I've classified my panic attacks in three categories: those that have a reasonable explanation or situation, those that have some sort of explanation even if vague, and those that emerge suddenly from somewhere without any reason. I hate the last category the most as it's hardest to deal with. So when life is falling apart, my mind automatically categorises it in easiest panic to deal with, so it doesn't feel quite so bad at that moment.
#15
Ditching faith and thinking like a scientist greatly reduces your chances of being swindled.
#16
Good sleep, good nutrition, and plenty of hydration. I never realized that all three of these areas greatly impact mental health. The "brain fog" people experience is likely just dehydration.
Leaving people and places that do not serve you well is a great skill to have. It is a very difficult skill but it will improve your life.
Science Nerd 4 months ago
Good sleep is a goal that I cannot meet, which it why it is now 5am and I’ve been on BP for 2 hours.
#17
Daily exercise will make your life way better.
#19
Boring is actually productive. Like people who wear the same clothes daily or eat the same food daily, they cut out the mindless decision making to focus their energy on more important things. It's kind of cool to be honest.
Child of the Stars 4 months ago
Pediatricians have been saying this for decades. Let your kids get bored. It encourages creativity.
#20
The day I started realizing that a lot of fears I had were the projection of internal anxiety onto external circumstances, everything changed.
I started working on myself and my perceptions.
I was holding myself back from doing a lot of things just because everything was scripted by my imagination.
#21
Pay for experts. I used to do almost everything myself. Not always worth it.
Bob Brooce 4 months ago
Counterpoint: Experts are usually faster, but not necessarily better at a lot of things. With YouTube you can learn how to do all sorts of things if you're mechanically inclined or have some really basic skills. Almost anyone should be able to do some minor plumbing, change an electrical outlet or switch, or replace some deck boards. Replacing a faucet or a circuit breaker is pretty simple, but maybe more than a lot of people should do themselves. The trick is figuring out what your limits are.
#22
Not drinking soda.
Limiting social media interaction to 10 minutes (or whatever works for you).
Understanding you can only do what you can do. Stressing about the insanity of our world doesn't do anyone any good. If you're a fortunate person to be able to live a good life in a safe place, enjoy it.
#23
Don’t ever fight anyone who has less to loose than you do.
Kabuki Kitsune 4 months ago
As the saying goes "The most dangerous creation of any society is the man who has nothing to lose."
#24
Don’t take stuff personal. Even if it’s directed at you, don’t get defensive, but ask why and do a reality check with yourself.
Kabuki Kitsune 4 months ago
To add to this, admit when you're wrong, and don't automatically assume every critique or criticism is a personal attack.
#25
There will be plenty of hard times. Try to enjoy every other moment.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 4 months ago
This should be #1. And when things are hard, don’t make them any worse.
#27
Don’t get caught up in the emotion of it all. Not everything is worth getting upset over. People will think what they think. You don’t need to worry about that.
Know your self worth . You matter. Look after yourself.
People are nicer to you when you look fit and healthy, clean and tidy . I guess it makes you seem more approachable and driven ?
Do little things for tomorrow’s you. Lay your clothes out. Plan your week. Have the kids organised for school ect ect ect.
#28
Communicate and show up every day. “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” No. Even if you feel like you can’t give your best, as long as you show up and try, you are almost guaranteed success.
Alexia 4 months ago
I'm sorry, I have to disagree with this one. (Perhaps the phrasing should have been different?) Nothing is guaranteed. Moreover, while you keep trying to do x thing, you might come to realize it was not what you actually wanted or needed. And that's absolutely ok - take it as a lesson and move on.
#29
1)Journaling regularly to better understand where I'm at in life and how I feel about it. Then, I can come up with solutions to problems and not self-sabotage so much.
2) When I was a nanny I saw that children need two hours of outdoor activity time a day or they are cranky and have trouble concentrating. It turns out that I do too.
3) Understanding that a lot of people don't really want things to turn out well for you. You have to be your own protector and ally because no one else will be.
mandy the capibara 4 months ago
The last one makes me realize how lucky I am for actually having family members and a partner who I know do want things to turn out well for me, and who seem to be in my corner, no matter what. Can't imagine how isolating it must be to feel like you are the only one you can rely on to have your back
#30
The observer is the observed.
Emotions are a necessary spice of life, but it’s equally important to recognize that you can detach yourself from them too. You can step back and watch your emotions exist and pass by as an observer. This can be done upon many iterations, detaching layer by layer - the observer can be observed.
Removing all bias, judgement, or thought, and just observe the present. Not only does it clear your perspective of reality, but sometimes it helps you appreciate those emotions even more.
Child of the Stars 4 months ago
"Feelings are not facts" is a common refrain from certain groups. But while there is truth to it, that doesn't mean feelings aren't important. Understanding *why* you feel a certain way about a situation or circumstance can be extremely helpful in managing it.
#31
If things aren’t working out ….. say I can’t do things without messing them up, or I’m having really bad luck that day, just stop and do nothing. Eventually your brain or the universe resets and things go back to normal.
Grape Walls of Ire 4 months ago
I would love to see someone stop in the middle of a big presentation, sports game, or concert, and just stand there staring at the audience for several minutes.
#32
Relationships are everything. You can’t go through life alone. Also - interesting people are interested… be curious.
#33
When you're nervous, say aloud "I'm excited" five times. Your body will auto reframe it to excitement.
#34
Being attractive is a cheat.
d b 4 months ago
I actually really hate this one even though I recognise its truth. Pretty privilege is a thing and, unlike resilience, hard work, education, relationship building and generally being a decent human being, it is not something you can totally cultivate. Pretty people get more in life because we ascribe them power. So could we just, like, not?
#35
Care JUST ENOUGH. Seriously. While I’m still trying to perfect it, I sort of let my concern for a lot of things diminish significantly and not only am I able to put my concern into more pressing and/or important things, but I AM significantly happier overall. Again, it’s not perfect, and the big sad and anxiety come around every now and then, but overall, I’ve been doing a lot better. I recommend it.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 4 months ago
When presented with horrible news, before you get too emotional about it, ask yourself, “What can I DO about this?” If the answer is, “Nothing,” teach yourself to move on to the next thing.
#36
Mix in a spray bottle: 3/4 cup clear dishwashing detergent to 1 cup white vinegar. This will lift clothing stains without having to spend extra on stain removal products.
#38
Two things:
- Pretty much everything you hear is just an opinion, not a certainty
- Those who give advice are usually unable to follow it.
#39
To not fall into the myth of alchemist, there is no secret weapon like in video games that's going to save a life.
You have to build systems, even mental ones to live in peace.
And systems are complex.
#40
Slow down. Slow is steady, steady is safe, safe is fast.
Geoffrey Scott 4 months ago
One of the most difficult things in my life was to think 'here and now'. Every time I think 2 jumps ahead, I screw up the thing that is in front of me.
#42
Actually thinking about stuff, and having the willpower to do or not do.
#43
Not bragging on advantages or sharing them.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 4 months ago
“Share” as in telling people about them? Or “share” as in helping other people when you can do so without depleting yourself?
#44
No alcohol.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 4 months ago
How about “moderate alcohol” unless you are alcoholic or have some other health condition that makes it dangerous for you? The whole world should not be expected to live the same way.
#45
People only come to you driven by a selfish desire of their own. It's okay to be kind but don't let others use that kindness to their advantage.
Science Nerd 4 months ago
Very cynical. There are actually people out there who care for others. What would be my selfish motivation to work at a rescue mission or to attend the funeral for a co-worker’s spouse?
#46
Watching youtube at 1.5 x speed..I get all the info in less time. I'll study all kinds of topics ... I learned arc welding in 1 day (about 20 minutes youtube, the rest was actually welding).
#48
Having great parents. I know it’s not a choice, so not sure it counts, but just had to add it.
#49
Taking a quality probiotic daily and 3 minute cold showers in the morning.
Inflammation game changer.
Grape Walls of Ire 4 months ago
Yogurt is a quality probiotic. So is kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, etc. They're also food. Pills are not. Your body absorbs probiotics (and nutrients) better when it comes in food.
#50
Live in Europe. Work for a US-based company.
#51
Only listen to those who have done what you want to do.
Not everyone has your best interest at heart.
Michael Largey 4 months ago (edited)
But if the people who have done what you want to do are mysteriously no longer around, you might reconsider.
#52
SINGLE people working day time vs nighttime lose on average 3 less hours of free time
1hr to work with traffic
1hr home with traffic
1hr market-gas with foot traffic
Nighttime jobs sleep through rush hour, get the freeways to themselves, no lines at the supermarket or gas stations, no traffic.
#53
Intermittent fasting as a tool to manage weight.
Grape Walls of Ire 4 months ago
Not really. Every body is different. If yours works best with intermittent fasting, great, but don't assume it's the best solution for everyone. It isn't.
#54
Pessimism with everything actually makes you overall happier because if something doesn't happen you no longer get upset or disappointed. If it does happen then you're usually pleasantly surprised. I also go with: prepare for the worst while striving for the best. Same idea for different situations.
#55
If your child keeps being disobedient in public spaces, stick a crash helmet on them and people will just think they have special needs and won't judge your parenting skills.
#56
OMAD. (I eat One Meal A Day). Lost 50 lbs in 6 months. Maintained over 6 years. My activity level went way up. Strength training. Hiking. Walking. I started running (Which I’ve done on and off - but have been mostly ON. Running 5K 2-3x a week for well over over a year). All my exercise is fasted. Feels great! No bloat!!
Healthy tastes delicious. My diet cleaned itself. I tell people my taste buds were reprogrammed.
You don’t realize how much time most people devote to food. That time is my own.
And hunger! Totally absolutely gone. I’m never what I used to call hungry. But full? I get that every day. After my meal I don’t want any more. No fork putdowns. No will power. No guilt. Eating is a guiltless joy and pleasure.
My one meal is amazing! Special time every day. Healthy and delicious. I spent a couple weeks with my sister in Colorado. She was worried about me and OMAD. But I cooked for her. She saw what I ate. Loved it. My amazing salads. Steaks. Veggies. She’s not OMAD every day but does it often. She doesn’t worry about me.
My health improved dramatically. Dr about fell off his chair. All my health metrics improved dramatically. He was skeptical at first. But I’ve kept it up. Says keep doing what you’re doing!
Dentist too. My gums stopped receding. They actually improved. The one and only patient that’s ever happened for in her 20+ year practice.
This is a life hack hidden in plain sight. Biggest cheat code ever.
Grape Walls of Ire 4 months ago
See my previous comment. Or actually, don't. Don't take any advice from random people on the internet about your diet. Talk to a registered dietitian.
#57
Buying a new one of the same item and returning the old one with that receipt when the item is obviously defective or broken won’t help.
Kabuki Kitsune 4 months ago
That's just fraud, and can get you in a whole host of trouble... so yes, it won't help.
What do you think ?
Cronecast AtTheRisingMoon 4 months ago
This was really enjoyable, thank you for sharing it, there are some really wise things in some.
Graham Berry 3 months ago
Do ask store reps to check the back for stock if the computer says it is available. Most stores will have this information posted up to date online threw their website. If it says out of stock don't ask as even if they can find what you are looking for they will not be able to sell it to you because it is not in the system as sellable items.
The Cute Cat 4 months ago
As an kinda successful adult, there are always some people asking help about money. The best way to handle it is to limit giving or borrowing money up to how much you can afford to lost. For me the limit is the money that I can save each month.. It is because much of people taking debt from you will never return it according to the time frame they told us. Some of my friend and family actually has ghosted me for years after taking small debt..
Joe Publique 4 months ago
Not much to see here. Just lots of realisations from people's therapy sessions.
Cronecast AtTheRisingMoon 4 months ago
This was really enjoyable, thank you for sharing it, there are some really wise things in some.
Graham Berry 3 months ago
Do ask store reps to check the back for stock if the computer says it is available. Most stores will have this information posted up to date online threw their website. If it says out of stock don't ask as even if they can find what you are looking for they will not be able to sell it to you because it is not in the system as sellable items.
The Cute Cat 4 months ago
As an kinda successful adult, there are always some people asking help about money. The best way to handle it is to limit giving or borrowing money up to how much you can afford to lost. For me the limit is the money that I can save each month.. It is because much of people taking debt from you will never return it according to the time frame they told us. Some of my friend and family actually has ghosted me for years after taking small debt..
Joe Publique 4 months ago
Not much to see here. Just lots of realisations from people's therapy sessions.
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