Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
then open in external browser
and click "Open in External Browser" 
“Dream Achieved”: 78 Stories That May Inspire You To Take A Chance At Something
You’ve likely heard someone say something along the lines of, “You only have one life to live. Make the most out of it.” It’s sound advice that many of us tend to overlook, not realizing its value.
However, there are those who took a leap of faith and ended up becoming one of the best life decisions they have ever made. Some of them have shared their experiences online, all of which are inspiring enough to remind us to live life to the fullest.
Some of these anecdotes may seem minor, but they have nonetheless made a significant impact on the person. Scroll through, and hopefully, these stories will encourage you to do the same.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
I Always Wanted To Buy These Colorful Balloons, But My Parents Refused. Today, On My 30th Birthday, I Bought One For Myself
BrunoVI 1 day ago
When my son was small people would compliment me on how great it was the way I played with him. The honest truth is (1) he got a bunch of toys I'd never gotten and I had a blast finally playing with them and (2) An easy-to-please audience replacing my own harsh-on-myself judgments led to a real awakening of my artistic self.
Load More Replies...
Savannah greenleaf 1 day ago
We as a society need to get over this color thing. It is like I when I overheard my MIL tell my children "they are just colors. Pick the one you like the best.". I loved her rationale on that one, and promptly stole it.
Lost Panda 1 day ago
Maybe not the same, but I tell my children "It doesn't matter how old you are, you like what you like. You want to watch MLP at 15? Go for it! You want to play make believe with sticks at 13? More power to you!" The stigma that something is only for children a certain age or gender baffles me. And yes, I still watch cartoons and play with my Gundam models at dang near 40.
Load More Replies...
RELATED:
#2
I Got Disowned By An Entire Branch Of My Family For Wearing Makeup, And After A Week Of Crying And Self Doubt, I’m Kinda Over It
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 1 day ago (edited)
We don't talk about the makeup I wear in my family. Most of them don't even know. Not gay BTW. Just a goth boy. They's totally be fine if I was gay.
Mel in Georgia 1 day ago
Makeup is about self-expression. Wish more men felt comfortable with it! Good for you!
Load More Replies...
Another Panda 1 day ago
Oh my gosh, you look WONDERFUL! Beautiful, handsome, gorgeous….I want you to do my makeup every day!
Stardust she/her 1 day ago
What the hell? This is so beautiful oh my god, the eyeshadow is everything
Sally Moen 1 day ago
I'm wondering if you plan to share your skills with others, either as a paying gig or to share in a giving way. Because whatever you do with that talent, you improve the world. This photo made me smile
Bob Brezniak 1 day ago
When will people remember: "Whatever floats your boat is totally cool"?
#3
From Homeless And Unemployed (26) To A Surgical Assistant (40)
I was roaming the streets and eating scraps for years. Couldn't find a job no matter how hard I tried, and not having any skills in life or family (I was raised in foster care) surely didn't help.
One day, while looking for a restroom to relieve myself, I stumbled across a college that just so happened to have an open house enrollment going on, and figured that was the perfect excuse to enter the building and freeload off their toilets. Little did I know, however, that the universe had other plans for me. A guidance counselor had approached me and asked if I was here for open house. Being embarrassed to admit my true intentions, I told him I was and ended up joining him as he regaled the countless opportunities presented before me.
I was intrigued by their surgical technology program and decided to give it a shot. Needless to say, I had finally found my passion in life. Went to school for 18 months, plus an additional 4 months of internships, all while homeless. Upon graduation, I was offered a permanent job at the hospital I interned at, and after 4 years, I had enough cases to take the CSFA exam.
I have been a surgical assistant since, and I remind myself every day just how fortunate my life turned out. Now that I'm an old man, I feel I have enough experience to encourage others that it's never too late in life to strive for better. You just have to have patience, persistence, and passion.
Sally Moen 1 day ago
Two YEARS homeless while attending school? That, my friend, is persistence and faith
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
To be truly fortunate is to have faith and fortitude to make it happen despite the trials and tribulations on the way.
Jude Laskowski 1 hour ago
I hope you were able to find empty rooms in the hospital so you could sleep better. Congrats! You're in a great job.
Many of us fear the unknown. We feel anxious about the unpredictability of a situation, which hinders us from taking action. American psychologist Dr. George Everly describes it as the “creeping dread” that not only does nothing to change the future, but also takes the enjoyment out of the present moment.
“We desire to wait for the moment of absolute certainty, but that moment seldom comes other than in retrospect,” he noted.
#4
My Art Got Stolen By 1000s Of Online Shops So I Sued Them And Bought An Apartment With The Money
6 years ago my art was stolen by 1000s of online shops. They printed my art on all kinds of products and sold them everywhere around the world. They made millions from it. I even saw people wearing my art on the street and saw it at markets and souvenir shops on vacation.
I tried to fight the theft by myself but gave up because it became too overwhelming. For every counterfeit item I got to remove, ten new ones popped up.
Then 2 yrs ago I started working with a law firm. 16 lawyers took down over 2000 shops to this date & recovered funds. They said it was the biggest case of art theft they have ever had to deal with and they’re still working on it!
After almost giving up and at some point even wanting to quit art, I just bought my own apartment with the money my lawyers recovered so far!
Artists: never give up fighting for your rights! You’re worth it!
1 day ago
People need to understand that copying the art created by another without permission is theft. Good on you!
Foxglove🇮🇪 1 day ago
They understand, they just don't care. Anything to make a quick buck!
Load More Replies... Earonn - 1 day ago
And a very nice apartment at that! Good for OP, though they deserve to get ALL the money made through their art. Also, now I'd like to know which design it was.
Nicole Weymann 1 day ago
Not sure about the exact design, but the artist seems to be Jonas Jödicke (insta: jojoesart) from Berlin. Guessing from the Google results the most popular art piece was two lion heads facing each other, one black, one white, outlining a heart. Aaron Carter was apparently somehow involved, too.
Load More Replies...
meeeeeeeeeeee 1 day ago
W*f, all my stuff has been stolen. Literally copied and pasted by places like Shein. I didn't think you'd be able to do anything to the c***s.
Karma Black 1 day ago
Not being a smart@ss: get a lawyer. Yesterday. If you can't afford one, you should be able to find someone who does pro bono work. You deserve to be paid for your creations.
Load More Replies... #5
I Recently Lost 170 Pounds. Took Me Two In A Half Years
Heart disease runs in my family. My father had a heart attack when I was fourteen. I have two little girls and don't want to leave them early as my father did. After the birth of my second daughter, I knew something had to be done.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
We are 170# twins!! As in, I also lost exactly that amount and am 1/2 the person I used to be. My family is amazed at the changes I made and bad habits long long tossed to the wind, to achieve the new me. And I say "new me" with the personal understanding of the psychological challenges that came along with all of those physical changes... One day at a time.
Scott Rackley 1 day ago
That's still pretty fast. If you loose weight too fast it takes a toll on your heart.
meeeeeeeeeeee 1 day ago
Isn't it about 2-3 pounds a week? Which is safe enough.
Load More Replies...
#6
After Years Of Depression, Today I Started My Day With A Beach Walk
I think today I realised I'm not as depressed as I have been, but I've been locked into the depressed routine for so long. Especially through COVID. I live 5 minutes from here, and the only thing stopping me from enjoying it is me.
I cried after I took this picture. I thought it was lame that I was so proud of feeling happy that I had to share it. A glimpse of what happiness is like.
Kristy Marion 1 day ago
I can relate to this so much. I wasted Covid in some ways bc of depression. It's so nice to be out and about again
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
Sometimes, MOST times to be honest, just standing up, throwing on clothing, and stepping outside into the fresh air can be the most difficult thing for a depressed person to do. Despite us knowing that it is also the BEST thing we can and should do. Battling our brains and inner demons is exhausting. Success is often fleeting. But it's always worth it in the end.
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
IIRC this guy started with this one walk and it turned into a big thing with him walking more and more. I might be thinking of someone else but it was very similar.
Blackmoon The Dragon 1 day ago
If you're sharing happiness and you like it, then DO IT. DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY. THE WORLD IS MEANT TO BE SHARED
Dr. Everly argues that uncertainty does have its benefits. That even if our brains have a psychological bias to protect us from the unknown, embracing the unpredictability, even the precariousness of life, can lead to limitless possibilities.
“If we can learn to tolerate the initial fear and vulnerability associated with uncertainty, we can avail ourselves of the potential that the unknown holds—and all that life has to offer,” he wrote.
#7
Today I Taught Myself To Lay Laminate Flooring. It’s Not Much, But I Wasn’t Taught How To Do Stuff Because I’m A Girl
My family didn’t think it was important for me to learn life skills other than cooking and cleaning because I wasn’t the boy they wanted. I bought a fixer-upper house, and I’m slowly making it my own… one new skill at a time.
I don’t speak to them anymore.
Geoffrey Scott 1 day ago
Not a girl, but my Dad never showed me basic repair or construction skills. Have had to endure much mocking and ego-trashing comments about my lack of skills. But I still keep trying.
TheRightToArmBears (riff/tone) 1 day ago
Same. Was never taught anything about cars, basic house stuff, etc. We are SO lucky to have youtube
Load More Replies...
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
I think there is a YT channel called ask dad or similar where this guy who was never taught anything by his father used his channel to show other kids how to fix/cook stuff etc.
highwaycrossingfrog 1 day ago
I just completed a 5 day hands-on DIY course run by a woman, in a workshop centre founded and owned by a woman, and 6 of us out of 9 attendees were women. Yay! (I should add that my mum did a ton of home renovating when I was small, and my dad is super handy with DIY. I wonder why they didn't think to pass on their skills to me as I was growing up? Lol)
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
My father died when I was 9 and my uncles were useless. Everything I know, I taught myself. Always something new to learn. An Airman I worked with said "If (x) can do it, so can you." Best advice when jumping out an airplane or handling toxic material.
Tempest 1 day ago
Idk why some parents think teaching kids general home repairs is unnecessary. Wasn’t so much a “cause I’m a girl” thing but my dad never taught me either. But I’ve just taken his tools and fixed stuff myself. My study desk (which is probably older than me) had the horizontal leg bar (?) under it come off its nails when I was still in high school cause I usually bounce my legs on it when stressed while studying. Asked my dad to fix it. He kept saying he’ll do it but was always busy. I just picked up a hammer and some nails he had lying around and fixed it. It remains solid to this day, nearly a decade later, even after several more years of heavy use.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
My son grew up with me as essentially a single parent (drunk, unreliable father on the outside lines) without a whole lotta money or extras. Today, amazingly, without formal education beyond high school, at 27yo, he can do ANYTHING and EVERYTHING home and car related. I am always amazed at his abilities as I know they didn't come from me. When I finally asked him about his drive, he explained that growing up "without" left him finding a way to get things done without the funds to buy new or hire others to make it happen. The situation led him to YouTube and other tutorials and he just soaked in the knowledge. Add to that, the desire to follow The Golden Rule (the least I could teach him) and he always does the best job possible for himself and others. Often for free or deeply discounted for those in need. I couldn't be more proud.
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
Plus you kids have yewtoob tutorials! I had technical manuals in the 80s. A******d to encyclopedias, libraries at a young age
Nikki Sevven 1 hour ago
Neither of my parents believed in teaching life skills. I'm not sure of their logic...just pay someone else to do it? Thankfully, my maternal grandfather (b. 1909) fully believed that all people (including granddaughters) needed basic skills, and taught me carpentry, painting, basic plumbing, basic electrical, how to change a tire, etc. And I was able to teach all of it to my own daughter.
#8
In The First Picture, I Thought About Giving Up, Because I Didn’t Receive Any Visitors, But Today I’m Managing To Live From My Dream Of Being An Illustrator
I thought about giving up, but today I’m managing to live from my dream of being an illustrator.
Siege Rook 8 hours ago
Indeed, I'm extremely envious - would that I had such creative talents, to produce something that will not only be enjoyed by others, but actually outlast me.
Load More Replies... 
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
Amazing freaking talent!! Sorry to sound repetitive of others' comments but that is the only phrase that immediately came to mind.
#9
Today’s My Birthday. My First One In My New Apartment After 3 Years Of Being Homeless, Depressed And Heartbroken
It’s quiet and a little lonely but peaceful and i want to think i finally deserve some peace. I don’t have anyone to share it with,hope it’s ok here.
Phil Green 1 day ago
You've shared it with all of us, and we have shared in your wealth with you!
April Pickett 1 day ago
You are a wonderful person, and deserve all the things coming to you. This was a step up, now keep climbing that ladder one step at a time.
Many of these stories are about major decisions that turned out to be life-altering in the best way possible. It can be an inspiring tale of living life to the fullest, something we often hear but tend to dismiss as mundane.
That then begs the question: how do you begin living life to the fullest? Award-winning psychotherapist Dr. Barton Goldsmith offered some valuable insights, which start with self-acceptance.
#10
Spent My Entire Life In A Church That Brainwashed Me Into Following Their Dogma
I wasted my time "working" for them when I should have been getting an education. I am happy to announce that I finally got the guts to leave, moved across the country, and at 22 years old, I'm going back to University.
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 1 day ago
Half my family are JW. My mom was raised in that church and was convinced that higher education didn't matter because everyone will get raptured or something. So she didn't. She's a brilliant woman who ended up working here self through civil service. All because she met my dad and was disfellowshipped and disowned by her family and her church because she was dating a Catholic.
Toika Gao 1 day ago
Weird. My mom is a JW and they don't believe in rapture
Load More Replies...
Bobert Robertson 1 day ago
I'm 38, and 4 credits shy of my degree. Career opportunity, then marriage, kids, etc got in the way of completing my degree when I was younger but I'm not letting it stop me. April I'll graduate 20 years after starting it! Better late than never!
GalPalAl 1 day ago
Being able to identify the issue is usually half the battle. Be glad you got out sooner rather than later
Black Cat 1 day ago
True, the other half is dealing with the guilt of going against the brainwashing you got as a kid growing up religious.
Load More Replies... Uncle Schmickle 1 day ago
Very good move. Any so - called church that brainwashes their members, doesn't deserve to exist.
Beak Hookage 23 hours ago
I f*****g hate the JW. They evangelise on street corners around here and I always hit them with a murderous glare.
#11
18 Months Ago, I Decided To Stop Drinking And Get My Mental Health In Order
Last week, my girlfriend broke up with me. Instead of spiraling and drowning myself in alcohol, I spent my free time this week making this box and a bunch of cool pendants to fill it with. Still 18 months sober.
#12
Dad Sent Me This Yesterday
My dad has been really busy with work for the last 35 years. He worked in a company for 25 years and was never really happy. He has never had time to follow his passion for painting. He told me his dream was to master watercolor painting. He sent me this yesterday.
MissMePhoenix 1 day ago
As someone who studied watercolor for awhile i can easily say this is AMAZING!!!!
As Dr. Goldsmith stated, learning self-acceptance leads one to a “path of enlightenment.” Once you’ve achieved that, the journey becomes enlivening and comforting.
“You will begin to see that we are all flawed beings, and your journey through this life will never be perfect, and neither will anyone else’s,” Dr. Goldsmith noted, adding that what tends to follow is the absence of judgment on yourself and others.
#13
After More Than 4.5 Years Of Losing Hair And Feeling Insecure And Self-Conscious About It, I (22m) Finally Decided To Let It Go
Mel in Georgia 1 day ago
So glad the shaved head look is popular to allow the follicularly challenged an opportunity to look just fine.
Chich the witch 1 day ago
Shaved my head almost 20 years ago and have never looked back. Only problem I have is my hat slipping off when I've freshly shaved :p
Saltypepper 1 day ago
Your hair really doesn't look balding at all, the balk look is very good on you, so either way you're fine, don't let this little bit of hair loss affect you self-esteem, to insignificant to worry you,, enjoy being young!!!
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
At 58yo myself, I must say that a couple of the most impressive body positive changes that have taken place over the last 20 years have been curves in all the right places and pride in thin and balding scalps. Add facial hair coming into play on some and WOWZA!! Happy for those that embrace and rock what the good creator gave them... and those of us who can appreciate the features too.
#14
After Having A Massive Panic Attack On My First Exposure Therapy On The London Underground To Overcome Panic Disorder And Agoraphobia
I tried again and this time it was a SUCCESS!
Mel in Georgia 1 day ago (edited)
This is so hard to do. But it can be done. Congrats to the OP for making their self do the hard thing!
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
The battles with our inner demons are the toughest to fight and the most rewarding to overcome. Unfortunately, those victories are often the least acknowledged by others too. Stand up, be loud and proud, and let the world know that nobody is alone in their suffering. No matter what the ailment, there are others in that boat too.
Mimi M 1 day ago
Love exposure therapy, but 1/64th of an inch at a time. No need to overwhelm.
Jude Laskowski 58 minutes ago
I've worked in healthcare and am a hypnotherapist. I've used it to help people who are afraid of getting an MRI. Every time someone runs up to me and yells "we did it", I can't stop smiling.
#15
I'm 16, Over 300lbs, And Just Went On My First Walk In Over A Year
Auntriarch 1 day ago
Ranulf Fiennes says that it's better exercise than running. And there's not much he hasn't done.
Load More Replies... Geoffrey Scott 1 day ago
5K, 3x wk Even if you don't lose an ounce, you will be in better shape and feel better.
V 23 hours ago
Walking is the best. We are lucky enough to live in a city with good walking and public transport infrastructure. A few years back I got really sick and could barely walk 500m without a break. Once I could walk easily again I really appreciated it. If you can walk somewhere, do it.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
The first step is the most important and the next one ahead is the only one that matters in the moment. Focus on the step in front and not the whole staircase....
We’d like to hear your personal stories, dear reader. What decision do you pride yourself on making that changed your entire life for the better? What pushed you to take the leap of faith? Let’s liven up the comment boxes below!
#16
18 Months Today Since I Made The Decision To Cancel My Nose Job And Never Look Back
It has officially been 18 months since I decided to cancel my nose job and lose a lot of money. It has been my biggest insecurity my whole life and I planned my rhinoplasty for 5 years.
As the date approached I realised the nose job would never actually make me happy because my issue wasn’t about my external appearance at all - it was much deeper and something cosmetic surgery wouldn’t fix.
Anyway, I am finally starting to love my nose and how it makes me unique. Getting a nose job was the best thing I never did.
Lila Allen 1 day ago
Agreed. I looked at the picture a bunch and can't figure out why she's insecure about her nose.
Load More Replies... Mel in Georgia 1 day ago
That is an epic nose, and the OP is absolutely beautiful. Reject conformity!
Geoffrey Scott 1 day ago
Had a women at work, who was distraught over her 'tooth gap'...."Huh, ever hear of Lauren Hutton?" Your nose makes you, you! It's adorable! Perceived imperfection makes people attractive.
Glen Ellyn 1 day ago
Your nose fits your face. It gives you your unique character. You have beautiful hair, too!
#17
Well Done
Sally Moen 1 day ago
I looked this award up, it's a journalism award from the BBC. It's a really big deal. Congratulations man!
Cee Cee 1 day ago
That's great. I really miss the sound of Komla Dumore's voice coming over the World Service late at night. RIP Komla such an inspiration to journalists everywhere.
#18
A Year Ago Today, I Moved To The Other Side Of The World, Without Knowing A Word Of Any Foreign Language. Today, I Passed A German Exam, Permitting Me To Study At University
TCW Sam Vimes 1 day ago
Welcome to our country, I hope your journey will be fun and successful
Scott Rackley 1 day ago
I remember taking the TEF. I don't get how she was able to do the German version in one year though.
#19
After Years Of Tooth Pain And Hiding My Smile, I Got Dentures! They Literally Made Me Smile
Serena Myers 1 day ago
Those are not UK dentures, UK dentures are tiny teeth and all the same size, so it seems as if you have 32 identically sized teeth, or 28 if you've had your wisdom teeth out. Good for OP!
Lazy Panda 2 1 day ago
Eh? Dentures mimic the teeth that should be there. They're not all the same size. Source: UK person looking at her Gran's dentures.
Load More Replies... #20
I'm No Longer Taking The Approved Alopecia Medicines Due To Harsh Side Effects. I've Decided To Fully Embrace The Fact That I'll Be A Patchy-Headed Princess And I'm Ok With That
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
Your patchy head will be an education for people and an inspiration for others to do the same.
#21
I Recently Opened A Small Bakery After A Couple Of Years Of Baking Out Of The House. I’m A Proud Papa
#22
I Left The House Today
Today was the first day in many, many months that I've actually put effort into an outfit, tied my shoes, or properly gotten ready to leave the house. I have extremely severe depression and anxiety, so it's very hard for me to do these. I never leave the house. I left the house today.
Sally Moen 1 day ago
I get it. It's a lot. You know that saying, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life."? Well today is. And tomorrow is the second day. Continue on.
Francesa Miller 1 day ago
Actually, tomorrow is another first day. They're all firsts and worthy of celebration.
Load More Replies...
Jedi Panda 1 day ago
Hey. You're doing great. I hope you know just how many people are behind you every step of the way.
#23
One Year Alcohol Free (31)
One year alcohol free and never felt better! Far less anxiety, better self-esteem and mood, less tummy issues, better skin, more energy, and improved relationships. Couldn’t ask for more.
#24
My 72-Year-Old Dad Graduated College With Honors Last Weekend (A.S. Environmental Horticulture And Design)
#25
Grandpa Is Still Living His Best Life Napping In Random Places Around The Farm
UnclePanda 1 day ago
If I've been pushing my physical limits too hard, I sometimes get the message, "We are going DOWN in 30 seconds. Bed or floor, your choice!" I learned to move quickly.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
The key to long life is listening to your body and it's needs. Gpa knows this.
#26
My Grandmother Graduated At 88
This is my grandmother, Joan Alexander. She was denied the opportunity to graduate from the University of Maine in the 1950’s. She had done all the coursework, but was forbidden from student teaching because she was pregnant. This year, my aunt (her daughter) reached out to the university. They agreed subsequent life experiences counted for the student teaching, and she graduated in May!
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
I promise you, once religion is gone, you wont have women as "furniture" anymore
Load More Replies... #27
Graduated With A First Class, And I’m So Proud Of Myself. I Didn’t Just Survive A Nigerian University — I Thrived
B. Sc. Cybersecurity (First Class Honours). Excited for what’s to come next!
Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
Cybersecurity?!?! Now get out there and unplug all those Nigerian "Princes".
#28
A Child's Dream Come True
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 1 day ago
I like it for the books. I LOVE it for how cozy it is. I like a small bed too.
Rick Murray 1 day ago
What the f.... I didn't even know this was a thing. Picture saved, added to the "life goals I'll probably never get around to doing but will overthink anyway" list.
#29
Love This
Geoffrey Scott 1 day ago
As I told my nephew, I will never carry a flag in a Pride Parade. But if anyone harasses you, I'm there.
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
Stop telling people what they can and can't care about.
Load More Replies... #30
At 16, My Guidance Counselor Told Me I Wasn’t Good Enough At Math To Go Into The Space Field. Just Received My Undergrad Diploma In Applied Mathematics
I started working on my master's in space sciences and engineering. Follow your gut and do the thing.
Stardust she/her 1 day ago
My family and grades tell me I’m not smart enough for astronomy. Maybe I can study hard and become an astronomer and prove them wrong.
oktopus 1 day ago
When I was 15 or 16, I was counselled not to pursue a certain (to me) foreign language for a university degree because my grades in it were not so great (I enjoyed it, but was struggling with various aspects of it). I not only graduated from high school with the highest possible grade in that subject, but then moved to a country where that language is spoken and went through university there.
#31
After 6 Years Of Being Bullied. I Finally Passed Primary School And I'm Moving On With My Life, Without The People That Tried To Ruin Me
I feel happy like never before. Highschool, here i come!
Debby Keir 1 day ago
Serious ask - in the UK 'primary school' is age 4-11 - it obviously means something different her, but what? please.
Roxy222uk 1 day ago
Also, what does having to ‘pass’ primary school mean. In the UK pupils move up through the years by age, with all their cohort of the same age, and at eleven they leave to attend a secondary school. Primary school is a place of learning etc, but you don’t pass or fail it.
Load More Replies...
#32
Decided To Spend Christmas Alone At The Cabin. Best Decision Ever! Think I’m Gonna Stay Over New Years Aswell
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
If all goes well in Jan, I should be able to disappear to a country without Thanksgiving or Christmas. Hoping for Japan, but I'll take almost anything
#33
Finally Published The Book I Started Writing In The Psych Ward, 3 Years Later
Beak Hookage 22 hours ago
It's the best feeling! I've done it many times and that feeling of awe and pride never fades away.
Load More Replies... Laszlo Larthlanc 1 day ago
Served up by Google: "Unthinkable Things by Chloe Henkel is a Young Adult (YA) romance novel about a teenage girl named Summer who struggles with severe OCD, including Harm OCD and Relationship OCD, based on the author's own lived experiences. Published in January 2025, the book aims to provide a realistic portrayal of OCD, moving beyond stereotypes, and explores themes of first love, anxiety, and mental health awareness."
Rebecca O’Donnell 3 hours ago
Thank you, Laszlo Larthlanc, for googling this so we can have the additional information. :)
Load More Replies... #34
Been In A Rut This Week With My Anxiety, Decided To Let It Out And Paint It Away
Sally Moen 1 day ago
It appears to be metal painted then heated with flame to blister in shades of fire. Very good technique in however you did this
Alli Marston 1 day ago
I bought one of his paintings a few years back. Recently went back to get another one and he seems to have disappeared (this link is from a 4 yr old Reddit post) :(
#35
Made It To 20 Years Sober
Sally Moen 1 day ago
You know what they say about somebody who makes it to 20 years sober, don't you? Good start!
#36
I Suffer From Severe Depression. Traveled More Than 6000 Miles (9800 Km) For A Solo Vacation To L.A. I Have Never Been This Happy In Years
1) I said I have depression, not because I wanted to get attention or something like that. I said it so everyone could understand why I was happy.
2) Yes, I have severe depression. Psychiatrists are not supposed to say how bad your depression is. It was my clinical doctor who (by mistake) said it when I told him how much of the antidepressant I was taking (I'm taking the maximum safe dose). I don't actually like to talk about the specifics.
3) I'm following a treatment that is not working as intended. Just before my trip, my levels of a specific hormone were a bit off, so my doctor said that we're going to try a few things to see if I can get better when I get back.
4) I hate this. I hate that I can't have a normal life because of this. Making this trip was easy because I actually like to be alone, so escaping from everyone felt great. Yet, I still have my ups and downs. I tried to get out of bed early every day, and I still couldn't manage to do so. But I try to enjoy most of the day when I'm out. It's horrible to try your best and yet some days you can't get out of bed, hating yourself because of it. Trying so hard to do it, but you just can't, like an invisible force is not letting you move.
5) I know that my depression is still here with me. And yes, maybe when I get back to my place it'll be hard, but thankfully I have a doctor, family, and friends who are going to help me out.
Sally Moen 1 day ago
I'm certainly glad you're ruining your depression's plans for today by taking a trip. And that you have gotten help.
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
Its a chemical imbalance, a fault of DNA, can be worsened by a useless family. No way out but through. If youre going through Hell, keep going!
Gingersnap In Iowa 1 day ago
Oh man, I understand every single point this person is making. Having severe depression is exhausting... utterly exhausting.
Lila Allen 1 day ago
I feel like people should understand this. I mean if someone had kidney failure or severe lung issues no one would be frustrated that they were exhausted and struggling. Why is it so hard for people to grasp that brain disease is a disease of an organ in your body. It's no different that having congestive heart failure and needing treatment
Load More Replies... Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
That d****d circle/cycle of depressive hate that we put on ourselves is so much harder than anyone else could. The desires and intentions that we fail to follow through with and accomplish lead to self punishment and inner shame far beyond what we might allow another to push upon us. It's a daily struggle that more often than not, I lose. And I too HATE it. Acting like the elephant isn't hiding in my head and pretending to be happy and upbeat when I am around others gets soooooo tiring. I hope and pray that the small steps I try to make everyday will eventually lead to accomplishing the marathon that will lead me to self acceptance and true happiness. I wish this for the world and all those who I know are in the struggle with me.
meeeeeeeeeeee 1 day ago
I dislike that the wee man has felt the need to answer these questions, probably because people are slabbering at him for smiling while having depression. Keep her lit, fella!
#37
I Won The Best In Landscape Award At My Local Juried Exhibit Today. I'm Just So Happy That My Unseen Moments Of Trying, Trying, And Trying Have Paid Off
M Whee 6 hours ago
Art is hard, because unlike a musician, all your practice is usually sitting there on the wall in all its faults where if you are learning a piece on the piano if you don't play perfectly it's gone and you just try again. Of course you have to practice painting, and it looks like all your trying is paying off, that's a piece I would buy.
#38
Finally Have A Place To Live After Living Out Of My Car For All Of November
Tabitha 1 day ago (edited)
Now comes the fun of furnishing your place. Go new for stuff like mattresses and linens. Check out yard sales and thrift shops (be careful of bedbugs, so check everything over carefully), for furniture, art, books, and little knick-knacks, and just slowly accumulate things that make you happy to surround yourself with. I’m 65 now, and did that when I was in my own for the first time, and still have a lot of the furniture I acquired back then. Sometimes stuff that’s just a little old now and being sold secondhand really cheap ends up becoming a valuable antique if you hold on to it long enough. I have a couple pieces like that. Picked them up secondhand for a song back in the day, because no one wanted them and I just liked them, and now they’re worth a bundle. I won’t be selling them, though, because I love them so much, plus they remind of when I was young and struggling.
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
Ive lived in a car before. Big Cadillacs are comfy with a dog or two to keep warm.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 1 day ago
Yep. I lived in my van for almost a year during a really bad phase of my life. That was before I had my dogs, so I only had one small black cat for warmth XD
Load More Replies... Jude Laskowski 48 minutes ago
Looks like a nice place. Wish I could give you some of my extra furniture.
#39
After Almost 7 Years Of Growing, I Donated 22inches Of Hair To Charity
Growing my hair since 2018, sorry about the B&W filter, bit self conscious about having acne in my mid 30s.
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
Can testify from experience that it's really hard work as it has to be untreated natural hair and at least 13 - 17 inches long. Had to grow out layered hair. Worth it though to get a thank you from a little princess with cancer. So 22 inches is a truly amazing achievement.
Load More Replies... Debby Keir 1 day ago
I have long white hair, but in the UK, I don't think we have anything like that. However, when I visited my eldest (NYC) she took me to a hairdresser and I had a relatively short cut and donated. They were ecstatic, becuase apparently, lengths of white hair are rare, and they could dye it any colour at all, for the children's hospital.
Auntriarch 1 day ago
Look up Little Princess Trust. I've donated twice to them.
Load More Replies... Brandi VanSteenwyk 1 day ago
Lol!! One thing I have learned about acne is that is knows no age barriers. At 58yo I have it worse than I did in my youth.
Jude Laskowski 46 minutes ago
This is so great! I worked with a nurse whose hair grew so fast, she could donate almost 12 inches every year, and her hair was naturally blonde.
April Pickett 1 day ago
You have beautiful hair and donated it for a good cause. Congratulations. Your acne will go away if you quit the carbs. I was on Keto, a low carb diet, and I don't remember exactly when I noticed my acne was clearing up and I haven't had a pimple since then. You don't have to go on Keto, just lose as many carbs as you can and you will see results.
#40
I Did It. I Cleaned My Depression Room
I’ve been rotting in bed for a few months and physically couldn’t get myself to do anything about it, but today I chugged caffeine and put on a show on my TV and just kept moving. I feel like I can breathe.
#41
Going Grey Was The Best Decision I Ever Made. I Am 37, Been Going Grey Since I Was 14
Lukas (he/him, it/its) 1 day ago
That first picture- Wow, I love that hair swoop, it looks absolutely gorgeous! Both pictures do, of course, but that first hairstyle is just so lovely.
Tabitha 1 day ago (edited)
To go gray when you’re young, you have to have a baby face to carry it off and not simply look old before your time. It also helps if the shade of gray your hair is happens to be beautiful. OP has both of those th8ng going for her, and she carries her gray off perfectly.
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 1 day ago
Jealous! I want gray hair but my hair but at 45yo is still brassy blonde.
KatSaidThat 1 day ago
I've always had natural blonde/white streaks on my sides which always got me in trouble at school. At 51, they are now grey and I love them as the rest of my hair has gotten darker as I age.
Beak Hookage 22 hours ago
We must be related; I started going grey very early, but because I have good skin and a baby face, people assume I'm half my actual age anyway despite the grey being extremely noticeable by this point. I've never bothered to do anything about it, because I like it. It makes me look more interesting.
#42
Starting A Garden Was One Of The Best Decisions We Have Ever Made
Mel in Georgia 1 day ago
Home gardens are a money and time suck. But I do it every year and am now giving everyone I know canned salsa and pickles for Christmas! It's a labor of love.
Lila Allen 1 day ago
One year for Father's Day we gave my dad a salsa garden by planting onions, peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro. He loved it
Load More Replies...
Jude Laskowski 42 minutes ago
Having your own vegetables is such a blessing. Many years ago, my grandmother grew basil and tomatoes on her fire escape in New York City, and dill in her living room. She used to get dirt from the local park.
#43
Learning How To Play Hockey As A 43-Year-Old Woman
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
Have you met Roller Derby "girls" ? Theyre usually mothers between 25 and 50.
#44
3.5 Months Ago I Gave Up A Steady, Full-Time Job To Ride Horses For A Living
Safe to say, I am happier than I have ever been and I am SO lucky to have a view like this every day. It was ridiculously scary but the best decision I ever made.
Chich the witch 1 day ago
If you can, do what you enjoy. May not get rich but you will have better stories for the grandkids than "I filled out those TPS reports really well"
#45
Have PTSD, And I Struggle With Being Outside. This Is My "I’ve Been Walking In The Woods 2 Days In A Row" Smile. Small Steps Forward
nicholas nolan 6 hours ago
How can you tell, with it being in the shadows like that?
Load More Replies... #46
Today's My Cake Day, And I Was Finally Brave Enough To Wear Nail Polish In Public. I Am A 19-Year-Old Male
Beak Hookage 22 hours ago
He did a way better job of it than I would have! My hand-eye coordination is dreadful.
Novlette Williams 10 hours ago
Not sure about blue and green nail polish. I always think it makes it look like you have a nail fungus. But glad you get to live your truth.
Chich the witch 1 day ago
Spot on. I used to have nail polish on just my index finder back in HS in the late 60s.
April Pickett 1 day ago
Happy birthday, and the naill polish looks great. Treat yourself to a professional manicurist, watch what they do, talk to them, and you're set.
Cheese 1 day ago
Not their birthday. On Reddit (where the post was made) it's the anniversary of when they made their account. A little cake icon shows up next to their username on that day. Either way, the nail polish is great.
Load More Replies... #47
Small Steps Out Of My Most Recent Depression. I Had A Shower! Cooked Lunch, And I Rang The Doctors About My Mental Health
Angela C 1 day ago
Sometimes once you've gotten yourself to do one thing it's a little easier to do another thing
Load More Replies... April Pickett 1 day ago
Good for you. That's a lot of steps for you to take on, I'm glad you did.
#48
After 8 Years Of Dreaming About It, I've Finally Launched My Soft Serve Ice Cream Pop-Up. Wanted To Share The Good News With You
Oskar vanZandt 1 day ago
I'll have the tower of deliciousness on the bottom right... Eventhough it will make me feel unwell. Looks yummy.
#49
From The Time I Was 8 Years Old, I Wanted To Be An Author. I'm 56 And I Published My First Book With A Major Publisher, And It's Been Optioned For A Hallmark Movie
GalPalAl 1 day ago
The beret and skirt made my brain ask if you are Madeline and was expecting the Eiffel Tower in the background
Just me... 1 day ago
That's beautiful Chicago, IL in the background. Its terrific, come visit us!!!
Load More Replies...
#50
I’ve Been Struggling With Depression And Anxiety For The Last 5 Years, I Took My Hobby And Decided To Get A Job At A Bakery
I finally feel myself getting better! Life is good!
#51
I’m A First Time College Student At 50 Years Old
I decided to skip college after high school as I was more interested in different things. 30 plus years, 3 ex-wives, and raising 26-year-old twins, I’ve decided to start a whole new chapter and get out of retail grocery as a career. Seemed like the perfect time in my life, and now that community college is free for most folks in MA, I’d be silly not to give it a shot! Computer systems engineering technology associates is the goal! Picked up my ID today and signed up for a summer STEM boot camp (all sorts of cool support stuff, as well as my first math and English classes). I’ve been smiling all day.
#52
2019 vs. 2021. Ever Since I Was Very Young, I've Wanted To Be An Actress.
I couldn't do it because I was insecure and had all kinds of excuses. Since 2019, I've been fixing my life, and 2 weeks ago, I decided to start pursuing my dream. I have my first (paid) role tomorrow.
#53
I Started Building This House Two Weeks Ago. I Will Be A Homeowner When I'm Around 25, Which Made Me Smile
Tabitha 1 day ago
TBH, the most valuable part of most houses is the land they sit on. Once OP got the land, the rest is just going to be sweat equity and pride in building their home themself.
Chich the witch 1 day ago
True, but I will take maintenance over paying off someone else's mortgage and arguing with a dense landlord.
Load More Replies... #54
People Used To Point Out That My Nose Is Big And Weird. That Made Me Quite Insecure About The Way I Look. But Now I’m Learning To Accept Myself The Way I Am
Sally Moen 1 day ago
What people? Where are THEY now? Probably out judging a whole new set of people, not enjoying being themselves. How miserable for them. How wonderful for you, they're gone, you're still here, still you, and nobody tore you down. Btw do you model? You photograph well, and have poise.
Laszlo Larthlanc 1 day ago
And, BTW, you have a wonderful face, nose included.
Load More Replies... GalPalAl 13 hours ago
As I posted elsewhere-always self conscious about my profile and thought about surgery. Then saw on tv how and what is done, plus all of the complications, chose to keep it the way it is and get over it. Unless it is absolutely necessary, elective surgery is not the way to go
#55
Never Give Up! 41 Single Mom Of 4. Graduating In May With A B.S. In Radiology
Long, hard road. 2 hurricanes, pandemic, divorce, and the loss of my mother. You are never too old! Most of my family has passed, so here you guys go.
Debby Keir 1 day ago (edited)
My father didn't believe in educating women (they'd just go off and marry) so told me at 11 - I'm now in my 70's - that he'd never finance me through university, but that my brothers would be. So, I became a nurse, which in the UK at that time, was more of an apprenticeship - 3 years of school and ward work for registration. I finally graduated from uni age 39, having found a nursing job with a company that would sponsor me. I've sponsored all 3 of my daughters through uni - one has a masters, one is a nurse (now a uni degree) and the youngest is a resident doctor. And I still hate misogyny. WE ARE AWESOME.
BarfyCat 1 day ago
My evil grandfather did this to his daughters. Fully financed college for the boys, nothing for the girls. Pretty hypocritical since he married a woman with a college degree.
Load More Replies...
#56
Quit My Job, Bought A Camera, And Went Solo Traveling For A Year (South/East Asia & Central America)
Danielle 1 day ago
I did this when I turned 30, my family were horrified that I would quit my good job (which I HATED) and do something so irresponsible just when you are supposed to be settling down. t I had the most beautiful time and now I'm about to turn 40 and it's all worked out good in the linger.term!
#57
Facts
Hassel Davidhoff 1 day ago
This is wisdom. And it is a wisdom some never learn. There is no reason to assume everything is about oneself, just as there is no reason to concern yourself with what is going on between the ears of everyone else. Yet we have a lot of folks who are so concerned with "keeping up appearances" and what not. It's quite odd. I remember my Mum being mad 'cuz I had a green mohawk, many years ago. I've really never understood why. The mohawk wasn't on her head, and I didn't live with her. Myabe she was concerned that it would reflect badly on her, for some reason? She took it personally, yet it really had nothing to do with her. I love my Mum, but I genuinely do not understand this thinking. Seems really antiquated these days.
#58
After Many Years Of Wearing Hats And Hiding My 5 Head, I Finally Did It
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
But if I do that, people think Im crazy 🤣🤣🤣 if I buzz my hair, I look like a gang member of an excon 🤣🤣🤣
#59
2.5 Years Of Treatment, Best Decision Of My Life
Regime 1mg finasteride per day Switched from 5mg minoxidil to 2.5mg a few months ago and gains still been fine.
Auntriarch 1 day ago
I don't know if it's too late, but you don't need hair when you have a smart beard.
Load More Replies...
#60
I Did It! 40 Miles On My 40th Birthday. This Was Truly An Amazing Way To Celebrate A Milestone Birthday. My Husband Made Me A Medal
Note: this post originally had 78 images. It’s been shortened to the top 60 images based on user votes.
Add New Image
What do you think ?
TACO Don's Authentic TexMex 1 day ago
Hell yeah to everyone. Never been more proud for a bunch of people I have never met
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
99% of people are so busy with their own lives they dont have time to worry about you. Dont care about what others think, just do you
Jude Laskowski 28 minutes ago
Many of us older people are depressed because we have no family, and friends are declining.
Load More Replies... 
TACO Don's Authentic TexMex 1 day ago
Hell yeah to everyone. Never been more proud for a bunch of people I have never met
Grumpy old man 1 day ago
99% of people are so busy with their own lives they dont have time to worry about you. Dont care about what others think, just do you
Jude Laskowski 28 minutes ago
Many of us older people are depressed because we have no family, and friends are declining.
Load More Replies... You May Like 50 Wholesome Internet Moments That Prove The Online World Isn’t All Doom And Gloom People Are Sharing The Dreams They Finally Achieved And Shared These 50 Pics To Celebrate
Mariia Tkachenko
Eglė Bliabaitė
Related on Bored Panda
