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" 
Wouldn't it be great if life came with an instruction manual? But alas, it doesn't. And that means adulting can be damn hard at the best of times.
Many of us are out here winging it, trying to balance work, relationships, health and money, while struggling to be the best versions of ourselves and keep our mental health intact. Let's not forget that never-ending to-do list of 'extra stuff' that seems to mock us every time we attempt to tackle it.
Thankfully, every now and again, someone stumbles upon a tip, trick, habit or hack that's so simple, yet effective, that it almost feels like they've discovered a secret cheat code. They're practical shortcuts, clever workarounds, mindset shifts or even basic one-liners that somehow help to make adulting noticeably easier, better or more efficient.
As they say, "Ask and you shall receive." And one netizen recently did just that - much to the delight of many of us who have merely been limping along in this thing called life. The person wanted to know, "What is the 'cheat code' you discovered in real life that actually works?" and more than a thousand souls came to the rescue.
Bored Panda has gathered the best answers for anyone needing to save time, money, avoid arguments, be a better human or just get a grip on the chaos. So keep scrolling, take notes and prepare to upgrade your operating system. Don't forget to upvote your favorites, and feel free to share your own personal 'cheat codes' in the comments section below.
We also included some expert tips on managing the stress that comes with adulting. And you'll find those between the images.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Treat everyone equally. Bin men, people on checkouts, the guy that mutters to himself at the bus stop, your doctor... everyone.
CP 2 months ago
That is called empathy and an entire political part in the USA is against that.
Michael None 2 months ago
All work carries dignity. It's how good of a job you do not in what that job is.
angelmomoffour62 2 months ago
Treat people nice because you don't know the battles they have been through.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 2 months ago
This is totally worth it. If nothing else, you’ll feel better about yourself. Sane, decent people know this.
Evan Connolly 2 months ago
I already do - although there are some people I try to stay clear of if possible.
Cosmos in your eyes 2 months ago
This is my husband. Doesn't matter if you are the CEO or the guy painting our house. My husband talks to you as an equal. It's so effortless. I love that about him.
Emilu 2 months ago (edited)
Who would ever think that being nice to people would typically result in them being nice back. /s And sorry, I use 'nice' rather than 'kind' because, whilst I know she has also done many objectively good things, Ellen has kind of sullied the phrase of be(ing) kind for me.
If you don't feel stressed out now and again, who are you even?
The American Institute of Stress (AIS) notes that stress is "an unavoidable consequence of life." And according to the 2024 American Psychiatric Association Annual Mental Health Poll, 43% of adults reported feeling more anxious than the previous year. 53% of those surveyed said stress had the biggest impact on their mental health, while 40% blamed a lack of sleep.
Experts at the AIS say that some sources of stress are inescapable, but there are others you can do something about. Yet, many of us never bother to distinguish between the two...
RELATED:
#2
If you admit fault for something you’ve done, it blows over way quicker. .
Jrog 2 months ago
If you admit *someone else's* fault for something you’ve done, it blows over even quicker. /s
Mook The Mediocre 2 months ago
Yes. You only need to say, "I'm sorry, I was wrong" once. Denying it takes an eternity.
"Make a list of things that you find stressful in your life and divide them into these two categories so that you can concentrate your efforts in areas where they are most likely to achieve results," suggests the AIS. "Don't waste your time and energy in a frustrating attempt to influence things you can't possibly change."
The institute adds that if something that bothers you seems beyond your control, learn to avoid or accept it. "If there is something you can do, do it - instead of complaining, worrying, and suffering needlessly," advise the experts.
#3
Just ask.
Ask for what you need. Ask for what you want. Ask for directions. Ask for help. Ask the question.
Most people want to help you.
Multa Nocte 2 months ago
I agree to a point, but I would probably change this "MANY people want to help you" and that is probably being a bit generous.
Evan Connolly 2 months ago
Depends if you are dealing with the Government or not. Just asking doesn't work for them; you gotta wait on the phone for 45 minutes and then you must navigate through bureaucracy.
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago
I don't want to capitalise on other people unless I have to. I WILL ask if figuring out myself doesn't work, but for one thing it sticks better when I *find* my way instead of asking, and for another one question lowers the bar and leads to another one - or another fifty. That's great for investigative journalists and scientists, but otherwise it often seems to foster/stem from lack of thought. In turn I am happy to help people - unless or until it triggers a barrage of requests.
The AIS says the most important thing that you can learn about stress is to recognize that often it is not external events that are stressful, but rather how you perceive them. The institute adds that learning to say "No" when necessary is one way to avoid feeling stressed out.
"It's just not possible to always please everybody," notes the site. "No one will respect you unless you respect yourself and your personal time."
#4
Being actually nice, i know its cliché but it works.
Dona Laura 2 months ago
Being kind to someone can really make a difference in the day of someone who is going through a difficult situation…. I felt it once on myself, and now I practice on other people all the time.
Tiarana Larsson 1 month ago
Well i had one coming up looking for fights, eyed my colleague. Hevsaid hr could call security. He eyed me up. I instantly said I do not di fights, im a hugger. He wanted a hug. He got three more and left happy sa ever. Met him again, looking for a fight. Asked if he remember me his hugbuddy He did, left happy
Load More Replies... #5
When someone shows you who they are, believe them.
Sly Schlang 2 months ago
It is hard. I always want to see the best in people, especially those that I like. But some are just charming as in putting a Charm on everyone. But they do show signs, always. It is just more comfortable to ignore those signs until they harm you. 😔
Load More Replies... CP 2 months ago
I don't like this one. It suggests people can't learn and grow and I detest that idea.
Gebidozo 2 months ago
People can learn and grow. The OP doesn’t contradict that. It merely say that we should evaluate people based on what they show us, not on what they tell us, or what we’d like them to be, or what we project upon them.
Load More Replies...When it comes to managing stress, there is no "one size fits all," says the AIS. While things like meditation, muscular relaxation, aerobic exercises, jogging, yoga, and sport can be very effective, you'll have to experiment to find what works for you.
51% of people polled by the American Institute of Stress said they prayed in private as a way to manage stress. 24% admitted to playing online games as a stress-buster. 22% turned to sports, and 18% prefer some retail therapy as a good pick-me-up.
#6
Listen a lot.
Talk a little.
Peter Bear 2 months ago
My grandmother used to say 'God gave you two ears and one mouth, so that you could listen twice as much as you speak'.
Sly Schlang 2 months ago
Yeah and never forget the second part. Only If you Talk, people have the chance to listen to you as well.
It often helps to let sh*t slide. Ask yourself, "Will this matter five years from now?" If not, don't beat yourself up about it or let it get to you too much.
Of course, we are still going to have moments where stress takes over. And there are some simple things you can try on the spot to help you calm down.
"Curl your toes against the soles of your feet as hard as you can for 15 seconds, then relax. Next progressively tense and relax your leg, stomach, back, shoulder, and neck muscles in the same fashion," suggests the AIS.
#7
People only dwell on their own embarrassment. You got to get it over embarrassing yourself and learn to laugh about it. I am not the center of the universe.
highwaycrossingfrog 2 months ago (edited)
My neurosis as a child/teen was quite the opposite - that no-one noticed me, remembered me or thought about me at all. Now I've developed self-confidence as an adult, this has transmuted wonderfully into never being concerned at all about what people think of me. I continue to assume they are not thinking about me (which I'm pretty sure is true for everyone). I'm also blessed to not worry about things I have no control over, such as other people
Ell Bee 2 months ago
I've always hoped this was the case, but have learned that sometimes people DO remember your embarrassing moments. For example: I took my dog to the vet and during the course of her treatment, I fainted and while unconscious, peed myself. They called the EMTs, helped me up, put a dog pee pee pad on my chair and called my partner. They were everything that was kind. I was so embarrassed that for years after I had my partner take the pets to the vet. Three years later, just as I was hoping that enough time had passed so that they would have forgotten the incident, the vet asked my partner, "How's Ell doing? Tell her not to worry. We get peed on all the time."
Beak Hookage 2 months ago
I actually decided to try and remember embarrassing things people I know have done in front of me. Only one sprang to mind and I had long since forgotten all about it and never judged them for it when I did remember.
#8
Being nice costs nothing. And maybe only others will benefit. But that's OK.
Caffeinated Ape 2 months ago
"Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway."
Emilu 2 months ago
There's a difference between 'being nice' and 'being a pushover'. Sometimes the lines can be hard to see. If you're not sure, I find asking a trusted friend or relative a 'hypothetical situation' is enough to help me see, when I verbalise it, which one I'm being.
Load More Replies...You could also listen to music that helps you relax and lift your mood. Or, if possible, you can go for a brisk ten-minute walk to clear your mind.
Deep breathing is another option. "Try to relax as much as possible in a comfortable, quiet environment with your eyes closed," suggests the institute. "Breathe quietly in a slow rhythmic fashion. With each exhalation, repeat a simple word or sound softly or even silently."
#9
Learn to say NO is the best cheat code.
It works everywhere, in personal life or professional life.
Harry Gondalf 2 months ago
But how to say no WITHOUT LYING takes some skill. Eg., invited to dinner by a person whose partner doesn't like you: don't claim another engagement. My fovorite is ":I don't feel comfortable with that." Or, "it' not my cup of tea."
Multa Nocte 2 months ago (edited)
It would be nice if we were all taught as children how to turn things down graciously, truthfully, and kindly. However, there are a few people who won't take "no" for an answer, no matter how nicely or firmly it is couched, and if that occurs, I personally believe it's OK to start to take the gloves off a bit. An example is if someone is trying to ask you out on a date who won't take no for an answer. However, lying is still not in this repertoire because I believe it gives the other person hope.
Load More Replies...
Emilu 2 months ago
I'm aware not everyone finds this comfortable, but remember that no is technically a complete sentence. The more details you add, the more chance you have of getting the person to try and work around your 'no'. I personally like, "no, sorry -- I can't (make it, do that, etc)", which works for reasonable people and softens the blow a bit. Examples like Multa gives are tougher, though.
Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
And when they inevitably ask "Why not?", your answer is "That's personal."
#10
Throwing out all your socks and buying all the same kind. Never need to match socks again.
Peter Bear 2 months ago
Did this about a year ago, never looked back. Probably time to do it again soon.
Ace 2 months ago
Why, what's happened to all the ones you bought a year ago?
Load More Replies...
Cosmos in your eyes 2 months ago
THIS! I've done this for my kids. They both wear the same socks. Life is so much easier!
What if you can't close your eyes during a stressful moment? The AIS suggests picking a spot about 10 feet away to look at, and letting it go slightly out of focus.
"Say the following phrases to yourself: 'My arms are heavy and relaxed.' As you say this relax your arms and shoulders as much as possible, wait until you feel the tension leave. 'My legs are heavy and relaxed.' As you say this relax your arms and shoulders as much as possible, wait until you feel the tension leave. 'My mind is calm and quiet.' Try to rest your mind, imagine a quiet pool with no thoughts rippling to the surface," advises the AIS site, adding that you should repeat these two or three times until you feel notably relaxed.
#11
Document everything lol.
B Hobbs 2 months ago
I kept a journal at work. Just a simple text file, add at the bottom, date, what I did, other things of note, new file each year. You should be able to read an entry from two years ago and understand it, it does not matter if others would not understand it, the journal is not for them. Boss comes around and says, "It is performance review time. Why should I keep you employed?" Two hours later I send her a list and ask why should I continue working here? Back then, I kept the journal on my work computer. If I was still working, I would probably keep the journal on my mobile.
Emilu 2 months ago
Yes, but...? I asked a colleague to come and have (what was genuinely meant to be) a friendly chat with me about something she had said to which I had taken umbrage -- she had essentially accused me of falsifying client notes, which as you can imagine in law is both personally and professionally damaging, not to mention insulting (taking notes after the client has left is pretty standard where I work; some clients will complain you're not paying sufficient attention if you try taking them whilst they're talking). Her insisting on documenting what was meant to be an informal situation is what to said situation escalating (ultimately resulting in her firing). Documenting is valuable, absolutely, but time and place.
#12
Being kind, following up, and showing up on time—people seriously underestimate how far that combo gets you.
You can also try visualizing that you are on a beach, listening to the waves coming in and feeling the warm sun on your back. "Try to make the sounds and sensations as vivid as possible," suggests the site. "Concentrate on the pleasure and peaceful reaction it induces."
Of course, it doesn’t have to be a beach. Pick any place that relaxes you, but make sure to include all of the sensuous details.
#13
You get a lot further in your career by being likeable than being good.
#14
If you are on a road trip and need to use the bathroom look for a name brand hotel (not motel). They will always have bathroom off of the lobby and hotel see this as a first customer impression and they will always be cleaner and safer than some truck stop.
Definitely more important for women (most men will be fine peeing on a garbage can behind a crack house).
Biofish23 2 months ago
Most of my road trip experience has been up and down the east coast (USA), generally I find state maintained highways rest area are ok, as are most fast food locations. Gas station bathrooms are almost universally horrifying.
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
And I can never find a decent crack house with a garbage can when I need one...
Bobbie McMasters 2 months ago
The State of Ohio maintains its rest area restrooms better than many people do in their own homes.
Beak Hookage 2 months ago
Last petrol station toilet I saw was so VILE my bladder instantly sealed itself shut.
#15
Committing to only saying the truth. It is hard at first but with time you actually stop getting yourself into situations which would make you have to lie. Life becomes much simpler and easier.
Aileen Grist 2 months ago
Integrity is better than truth - there are times that a lie is needed.
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
I'm always amazed at people who lie. It must be so difficult to keep track!
Lene Leth Winterberg 2 months ago
I dont agree. Have integrity - yes. Absolutely. But I have zero respect for people who disregard and take accountability for hurtig other people with their statements, because they “are just telling the truth”. Bull. You just dont care about other peoples feeling and only your own. My SIL is like that. You can be very honest if you Think about how to say what you want to say. You dont have to bulldoze over other people. Being kind is not a caracter flaw - on the contrary. And yes by being kind you might also have to tell a lie. You dont HAVE to say “you look fat in that dress” - try “ i liked the other one better on you” fx.
Most importantly, always make time for yourself. "Satisfy your personal needs. Make it a point to take 30 minutes a day to do whatever you want - including nothing at all," the institute advises. "Pampering yourself is a powerful stress reliever."
And if you're feeling so stressed that you just can't cope with life, never be afraid to reach out to a mental health professional for help!
#16
Sleep, literally fixes 80% of my problems.
Dona Laura 2 months ago
I agree completely. When my friends are going through something serious, the first thing I ask is, ‘Are you managing to sleep?’ If they say no, then that’s what we focus on first — because after a good night’s rest, everything feels easier.
arthbach 2 months ago
It's amazing the difference that can be made by having something to eat, something to drink, a wee bit of exercise, and a nap. The bigger situation doesn't change, but our ability to deal with it does.
Load More Replies...
Child of the Stars 2 months ago
One of the things I learned in therapy is the importance of not just the right amount of sleep, but a healthy sleep/bedtime routine. I prioritize that for both myself and my kids.
#17
When trying to form positive habits, focus on the "easy" version first, and just start. "I'll go for a 10 minute walk." might quickly turn into a 60 minute walk once you're out there.
I used to hate exercise, but was fine with walking. Walking turned to runinng, turned to weight training.
If you're trying to change your diet, cut out the 'meh' foods. If the fries don't travel well, don't get fries. If the burger sucks, don't get the burger. Focus on the junk that actually makes you happy, and find healthy foods that don't repulse you.
I'm 42 and in the best health I've ever been.
Kohl_Keene 2 months ago
It doesn’t require supplies either. If you can’t walk outside there are a lot of free exercise videos online, hand held weights are inexpensive to start.
Foxglove🇮🇪 2 months ago
You can improvise with what you have at home too - a can of soup in each hand work as weights, a towel can be used as a resistance band etc
Load More Replies...
Firstname Lastname 2 months ago
When I first started walking, it'd be a mile. Then I started adding distance. People think I'm crazy for walking miles to the grocery store, but my body thanks me.
Child of the Stars 2 months ago
I have a sticky note on my bathroom mirror that says "It takes time and practice to change your habits. Be patient with yourself."
keyboardtek 2 months ago
At age 26, I had a health issue that required an extreme change to a healthy restricted diet from a junk food diet. I really do not understand what all the complaining is about when it comes to changing a diet to healthy foods. You educate yourself first as to what constitutes healthy food and then you just start eating the selection you like. Stopping the junk is actually pretty easy if you make tasty healthy food to eat.
Susannah Dean 2 months ago
It's not that simple for most people. Glad you could adapt, though.
Load More Replies... #18
If something needs to be done and it takes less than 2-5 minutes to do, do it immediately.
Patricia Steward 2 months ago
It can. You might have to force yourself to do the first task, but frequently I get more motivated after that.
Load More Replies... Toothless Feline 2 months ago
People with ADD often cannot do this. You either interrupt what you’re doing to do the new thing and forget what you were doing before, or you wait till you finish what you’re doing and forget what you saw needing done. If you don’t keep interrupting things with new things and never getting anything done at all.
Lene Leth Winterberg 2 months ago
Nope. Not for me. I would like to but often cant. And I’m fine with that
#19
I go through this checklist a lot:
"Does this need be said?"
"Does this need to be said, BY ME?"
"Does this need to be said BY ME, RIGHT NOW?"
I've kept myself out of a lot really pointless, stressful, irritating arguments/discussions/conversations by just keeping this in my mind.
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago
Three options come to my mind: 1) you're a very important person , 2) you over estimate the value of your expertise/input, or 3) you're in the wrong company.
Load More Replies... #20
Prioritize getting a full night of sleep.
Man in the mirror 2 months ago
You accomplish more with less time when you are well rested, and make less mistakes that take time to fix. Unless you are under unusual pressure, such as deep poverty, sleeping enough is a time saver.
Load More Replies... BrownEyedGrrl 2 months ago
Please tell me how to do that. I've tried EVERYTHING. My brain will not shut down.
Lene Leth Winterberg 2 months ago
I sleep approx. 10-12 hours at night. I’m still tired when I wake up. Welcome to the life of a person with chronic pain 🙄 Cant remember the last time I felt fully rested.
Bobbie McMasters 2 months ago
It would be nice if sleep would cooperate with being prioritized.
#21
Its costs 0 dollars to be kind to people.
#22
Drink more water.
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
I did that. The only effect was peeing more. Massively over-hyped for the vast majority of people who drink enough anyway. Oh, and those '8 glasses of water a day' requirements? Complete fabrication.
dan s 2 months ago
Unless you already drink enough. If you're not working hard in a hot environment, feeling thirsty is NOT a warning that you're going to die of thirst in 30 seconds. Your pee doesn't have to be clear and colourless. This idea that we're all walking around dehydrated is nonsense.
Emilu 2 months ago
Just not too much. (I know, I'm being *that* person; sorry). I believe the general amount a person is meant to drink a day is 2 litres, but some people just couldn't drink that much. Other people with health conditions *shouldn't* drink that much. So yes, drink water! Water is awesome! Just be aware of any health issues/health reasons you have that affect how much you should drink. (Eg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3HivpHP-5I&t=6s <-- too much. A woman drank approximately 11 litres/3 gallons, medical video. Don't do this.)
#23
I don't know exactly how to put it so that it will click with everyone else who is reading. Because i don't exactly know why it eventually clicked for me when it did:
But one day i eventually just sort of "realized" that there is nothing actually stopping me from obtaining any of the skills i always wished i had.
I grew up fairly poor, so college was never a real option for me. (In America). Once i hit adulthood, in my mid 20s, i started feeling like there were all these things in life i "wish" i could do. I wished i could play an instrument. I wished i had proper education for game design and programming. I wished i knew more about relevant historical information so i could form better political positions and arguments. And so on and so on.
And for some reason, all those things just kind of remained as wishes. I always just kind of thought "well, im poor, can't afford college, i guess i just don't really get to have those things."
And then one day, in my mid 30s, i was watching some Youtube videos of someone playing piano. The instrument i always wished i had the chance to learn when i was younger. I remember thinking how much i envy these piano players. And how special they felt to me. And then it hit me, for some reason: What makes them special? And for some weird reason, i changed in that moment. I suddenly for some reason realized... they aren't special. They never were special. They just "did" things and got better at it. And then i realized, all i need to do is just... start doing things, and it will be the same for me. There is literally nothing that those piano players have that i do not have.
And so, i bought myself a piano and began teaching myself. There are unlimited amounts of online resources to learn anything you want in today's world. And even though when i first sat down with the instrument, i couldn't do ANYTHING with it, within only a few days, i was able to see my progress begin right in front of my eyes.
After that, i taught myself programming, i taught myself game design. I started "actually" reading about relevant history and scientific data.
It probably sounds silly to some people, people who may have figured all this out when they were young, or had parents who instilled it into them. But even though i was told again and again as a child "you can do anything you want" it never really clicked for me until my 30s. There is literally nothing stopping you from starting to learn/do whatever it is you always wished you could do, except you. And the people who are already doing the things you wished you could be doing are not special. If someone else can learn x, you can learn x. It's as simple as that.
My second cheat code i could suggest is for people to start reading and implementing some Stoicism into their life. Even if only a little, i think the general idea goes a long way in helping people reduce stress and become much more emotionally stable which will increase your productivity and contentedness in life immeasurably. Stoicism and Meditation (together) will absolutely eliminate stress and unhappiness if you properly accept it into your life. Learn to accept circumstances for what they are instead of being upset that things aren't different. Learn to let go of materialism and focus on your inner self instead and you will learn that all those things that upset you, make you unhappy, or stressed out, don't actually matter that much at all, in the grand scheme of things. It's not a spiritual thing, its a psychological thing. Meditation is not magic voodoo, it is simply learning to control your thoughts instead of letting them control you. And Stoicism is learning to control your emotions instead of letting them control you, by putting yourself and the universe in proper perspective at all times.
Luke Branwen 2 months ago
I got so tired at AI art that I just learned digital art at 29. It's totally not perfect but the feeling of creating something yourself is just priceless, plus I can finally visualize stuff from my writing the way I want it.
Harry Gondalf 2 months ago
What a great post! One of my favorite quotes: "If you accomplish something good with hard work, the labor passes quickly, but the good endures; if you do something shameful in pursuit of pleasure, the pleasure passes quickly, but the shame endures." -Musonius Rufus
Emilu 2 months ago
So true! I love learning, particularly information in my case (I mean 'information' in this instance to refer to 'not skills', though I do like learning new skills too). It's why I love it when people on here are willing to debate with me on something about which we may not agree -- I may teach them something; they may teach me something. On skills, I really want to be able to crochet. I'm fumble-fingers at the moment, but I hope to get better.
Load More Replies... Patricia Steward 2 months ago
My library has lots of different classes for free, both in person and online.
#24
You don't need to have an opinion on everything .
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
Opinions are like arseholes. Everyone has one, and most of them stink.
Floeckchen 2 months ago (edited)
Except you want a career as a politicion
Load More Replies... #25
Under promise, over deliver.
If you set expectations low, achieving a moderate standard looks like high achievement.
Perspective is all about perception, which you can manage.
#26
Ask questions. People generally love to talk about themselves. Ask questions and be curious and everyone will want to be your friend.
Sly Schlang 2 months ago
Some people absolutely hate curious. They hate thinking or questioning anything. But you better not befriend those anyway 🤨
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago (edited)
Yeah, I use that one occasionally - mostly because I generally *hate* talking about myself, and if I'm the one asking I don't need to answer. So OP's approach is not a cure-all.
#27
In school, if you volunteer to answer questions, you’ll never be first on the pecking order to be called out randomly.
Sly Schlang 2 months ago
It always worked for me. Teachers were happy when I was quiet for once.
Load More Replies...
Craig Reynolds 2 months ago
Sort of true. In 5th grade, I always raised my hand and was rarely called on. One day, when I was positive I knew the answer, I did not raise my hand when everyone else did. The teacher called on me and I answered correctly. She then asked why I didn't raise my hand. I told her it was because I knew the ONLY way she would call on me was if I didn't. The look on her face was priceless. She never called on me again the entire year, whether I raised my hand or not. I don't know whether to consider that a win or not!
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago
Depends on the teacher in question. With some it may make them hone in on you by trained reflex. But it will show that you're actively taking an interest. "Verbal participation" was a key point in our reports back when I was in school. And, of course, that active interest WILL actually help you understanding what the heII the lesson is actually about.
#28
When someone is super cranky unreasonably, give them some food. Whether its your boss, your wife, your baby, your friend, it always works.
arthbach 2 months ago
Food, drink, loo break, or nap - one or more normally transforms 'cranky' into 'reasonable'. My husband was moving our daughter into university. It was a long journey, and I tasked my daughter with keeping her dad well fed and well watered. If it was down to him, he'd push on and keep driving. That wasn't always the best thing. Daughter was instructed to say things like, "Dad, can we stop at the next motorway service station please? I need X." Being a good father, he would oblige, and whilst they had stopped he'd have a snack, a drink, a loo break etc. :D
Floeckchen 2 months ago
When I am cranky I do not accept anything from anyone. No gifts, no food... nothing!
#29
When you are a grown up you can just go buy candy if you want to. Stores literally have it. Cake too. There doesn’t have to be a celebration to buy cake. Want cake on a random Tuesday in May? Sure!
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago
I wish. With a bit of luck (i.e. no athletic ambitions, good at processing nutrients, and reading as a favourite hobby) you can start in elementary school. Ask me how I know 🙄
Load More Replies... 
April Pickett 2 months ago
If I want cake, I usually buy a slice at the bakery, when I grocery shop. If I buy a whole cake, etc. it will be gone in 2 days max.
#30
Wear sunscreen.
keyboardtek 2 months ago
My oldest brother died from melanoma. You do not want to ever get that! It spread to so many parts of his body and he died a miserable suffering death.
#31
If you’re ever feeling lonely, see if you can pass gas. Whenever I think there’s nobody around and I let one go, someone ALWAYS comes around.
#32
Set yourself up for the morning. The night before leave out the dishes you need for breakfast, pick your clothes, pack your bags. It works wonders.
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
Yeah, I did this for a while, and it was very pleasant. When left 'unsupervised' I tend to revert these days, unfortunately. Fortunately, I'm not unsupervised often...
#33
Travel websites with "Budget Hotel" deals, like Hotwire's Hot Rate Hotels, don't have to be random or a "surprise". Cross-reference the number of reviews with the other hotels on the list. If their 3-star deal has 1226 reviews, and you see that there's a Comfort Inn with the same 1226 reviews, that hotel is currently the "Hot Rate".
IF YOU RELY ON HOTELS FOR WORK, OR LIVING:
HOT RATE DEALS HAVE THE SAME ROTATION EACH WEEK.
I put that in all caps because that's why and how I learned this. I was homeless, severely underemployed, and sleeping out of my car. I could afford a hotel room for a night or two each week, which was my opportunity to do laundry, shower, and get a real, good night's sleep. I didn't always book at the same time, because I didn't know. One day, I decided I needed some stability in my life, so I started doing things on a schedule, including booking my room each week. I eventually noticed that my pattern synced with their pattern, and I was getting to stay at the same hotel. Eventually, as I began to make more money (I went from working in one kitchen to two, and later front and back of the house at one establishment), I could afford a room for a whole week at a time, as long as I ate ramen and my shift meals. It was so nice to just be able to walk down to the office once a week and sign a new registration card, get my key remagnetized, and go back to my room. It changed my life and helped me to get back on my feet that much more easily and peacefully.
Everyone deserves stability, and everyone should be able to afford a roof over their head. I hope this helps, even if it's just for a better weekend away with your s/o, but for anyone who is homeless or at risk, I hope this helps you find peace and get back on your feet!
El Dee 2 months ago
Jeez, this sounds awful. People here an afford housing even if they work part time on min wage..
SchadenFreudian Psychology 2 months ago
I’m glad OP shared this, but it sucks that anybody needs to do this.
#34
You would not believe how many phone numbers I've gotten from the cute girl working at the local Walgreens, grocery store, mall and number of dates I've been on just by having a few quick, normal conversations and not being creepy. The conversation usually goes like: *"Hey look, I know you're working and this is a little inappropriate... but I like our little chats and would like to speak with you some more."* then I take out my pocket notebook and give them my phone number, snapchat, and Insta and say *"It's up to you if you want to reach out, I dont know your story and i wont be mad if you don't. have a good day."*
This means being respectful and accepting it then moving on immediately if they say no and leaving immediately when you go back to that store to buy something. After they reject you you're not there to talk to the girl or convince her to go on a date anymore, you're there to buy milk or some s**t and that's it.
#35
If you want to accomplish something, visualize it in detail first.
It sounds silly, but it really is one of the biggest keys to success at anything.
Foxglove🇮🇪 2 months ago
The 7 Ps - Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents P!ss Poor Performance
Load More Replies...
Jac Carr 1 month ago
Imagine doing that thing you want to do in your head as clearly as you can, over and over. By the time you do it, you feel like you're an expert at it - whether it is seeing yourself go through an interview & the celebration you'll have when you get the job or it's talking to that person you're interested in for the first time. It's just doing it in your own head before you go out and actually do it. Actors and sports people visualise all the time
Load More Replies... #36
You ever fill up at a gas pump that plays video advertisements, with sound?
The mute button is the selection button that is second from the top, on the right side.
#37
Being nice to people that you work with.
keyboardtek 2 months ago
Also, don't make snarky comments to total strangers on the internet.
Load More Replies...
Bec 2 months ago
Some years ago, we had a guest speaker on civility in the workplace. Since then, I am intentional about thanking co-workers and telling employees and co-workers that I appreciate them (highlighting specific examples). I have a colleague who is great about emailing thank-yous when staff fix an issue and copying their supervisor.
Nicole Weymann 2 months ago
I'd go so far as "being nice to people in general", actually. Why the limitations? What did the random barista/bus driver/fellow queue person do not deserve basic politeness?
#38
Remember peoples names and call them by their name often.
Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
That one friend who can't remember names to save their lives? There is a genetic component to that, our brains ( yes I have it) are missing a certain bump.
Luke Branwen 2 months ago
I do some tutoring for a language school and got a new class. Had their names memorized by the end of the 1st day (~12 people so not that hard) and I felt like it made some good impression.
April Pickett 2 months ago
I very seldom can remember names. It's very embarrassing. These days, I apologize and ask for their name again. I have one that's easy to remember. I call it Bananas Foster, it's Foster's body shop at the top of the hill and you turn right on my street.
Floeckchen 2 months ago (edited)
Just like ASMR this could go both ways. Some may find it soothing, others may get angry or aggressive over it!
Lene Leth Winterberg 2 months ago
I remember the James but cant remember what they told me otherwise (have PTSD). My husband cant remember James to save his life but he remember EVERYTHING else. Yup, we’re a good match 😄 When we first met I took him to a family event with my great cousins. A month earlier he had met their mother. So one of my cousins ways “hi, I’m Joanna”. To my husband I say this is x’s daughter and he goes “Oooohhh. You …” and he just babbles on about her education, what she works with, which area of Copenhagen she lives in etc. He remembered everything! And she just looked at him and said , quite spooked, how do you know all this??? “Your mum” But he couldnt remember her name 😅
#39
Floss your teeth.
Kohl_Keene 2 months ago
Yes! It takes minutes, but if you don’t dental implants are super expensive later on!
Patricia Steward 2 months ago
My dentist was pretty happy when I started using those little plastic swords -- much more convenient, less messy.
#40
At the beginning of the year, turn all of your clothes hangers backwards in your closet. When you wear, wash, and rehang the item - turn it the other way.
At the end of the year - sell or donate everything that is on a backwards hanger.
#41
1) Live below your means. Too many people get into trouble trying to pay for things they can't afford, which actually don't make them any happier.
2) There are four dimensions of success in your job: intelligence, experience, likability, and effort. You're probably not going to get any smarter than you are, and experience comes naturally with time, but likability and effort are completely in your control. Focus on maxing those out as much as possible for continued success.
OneHappyPuppy 2 months ago
Nope, intelligence and effort will just get you more work. Ask me how I know
Scott Rackley 2 months ago
Depends on what you mean by effort. Knocking stuff out fast, or doing it very well. You can be a Rolex or a Timex. Be the Rolex.
Zig Zag Wanderer 2 months ago
For part 1, Dickens had it nailed: "Income 1 pound, outgoings 19 shillings: happiness. Income 1 pound, outgoings 1 pound and 1 shilling: misery!"(reference, 20 shillings to a pound)
#42
Someone recently told me about a trick to find sleep :
Think about a short word, about 5 (different) letters long. Take the first letter and mentaly list words starting with this letter. When you run out of words, take the next letter of the word.
At first I thought it was Just one of those useless technique. It's been a few months, I've had a few sleepless night moments, each time I used the trick I was asleep before reaching the word's last letter. I wish I knew of that sooner in my life ...
B Hobbs 2 months ago
I slowly count. Breathe in, one. Breathe out, two. To keep my brain occupied a bit more, at 11, 22, 33, etc., I consider the digits: one, one; two, two; etc.. Works for me, I rarely make it past fifty.
Harry Gondalf 2 months ago
This is a form of 'ana-pana-sati,' mindfulness of breathing.
Load More Replies... Foxglove🇮🇪 2 months ago
That would keep me awake trying to think of the next thing for the list
Man in the mirror 2 months ago
Same. I would get obsessive. Have a word on the tip of my tongue I can't find. Get up to find a dictionary or worse, my phone. Get frustrated I failed. Try a new word. Start counting my "points". It would be a nightmare.
Load More Replies...
Anna Drever 1 month ago
I tell myself a story. I’m the star of the show and I have background cast members. I base mine on a sci-fi program from many years ago but that is of course optional. Anyhoo, every night you start at the beginning. You never pick up where you left off as the story might become too interesting and keep you awake. Always start at the beginning and basically you bore yourself to sleep. Has been working like a charm for the last couple of years. Only exceptions have been when I’m super stressed over something I can’t control.
Evan Connolly 2 months ago
I can't seem to sleep if I am thinking, so this probably wouldn't work for me.
#43
Don’t announce what you’re going to do as if it’s a given that it’s going to actually be done. Do it first and shut up even after it’s done. Bask in the completed task rather than the rush of the virtual applause you get for stating what you intend to do.
Floeckchen 2 months ago
...and watch how the guy who boasts over every single miniscule task gets promoted
#44
Call the company. This one has worked for me for a long time. Cell phone bill too high? Call the company. Going out of town for more than a week? Call the garbage pickup company. Any paid service will usually give you a deal if you call. The trick is be nice. Most calls are from angry folks who want huge discounts. If you give a call center rep a good experience and say, in the case of garbage, “we are going to be out of town for these pick up dates. Any way I can cancel or not get charged?” and you are really nice, they will waive the fee. My cellphone family plan went from $150/month to $95 with one phone call. .
#45
Bidets. They are literally a life changer.
#46
Fiber supplement for hunger control.
If you're dieting to lose weight and you aren't using fiber supplement you are playing on hard mode.
Take after a meal to feel full twice as long. Take after eating high carbs or sugar to reduce rebound hunger caused by blood sugar/insulin spike.
Judy Reynolds 2 months ago
Or you could try doubling the fruits and veggies you eat. Add flax seeds or chia seeds, preferably ground. Same effect but using real food rather than supplements.
Ace 2 months ago
There are many people in this world who would not consider those things to be "real food". Sure, eat more veg, if you can stomach it, but the more you make your diet into a tórture the less likely you are to stick to it.
Load More Replies...
#47
If you cant open a jar, tap hard all around the lid withe the back of a butter knife. It'll loosen the seal then you can open it.
Lee Gilliland 2 months ago
Or run very hot water on the lid. The metal will expand and break the vacuum.
#48
There’s only one thing I know that feels like a literal cheat code.
If you are talking to/being interrogated by a cop, all you have to say is “I want to speak to a lawyer” and they legally have to stop asking you questions.
They can’t speak to you about anything except logistics, like telling you to put your hands behind your back, or “place your finger on this fingerprint scanner”.
And if they do ask you anything, your answer is null and void in the court.
#49
Never miss an opportunity to admit fault and apologize, even if it is something minor.
It shows people you have humility and a sense of accountability. It can also make them feel slightly morally superior which can often lead them to give you more of the benefit of the doubt than they would otherwise. .
#50
Expect the best from people. Before saying anything to a person, imagine them smiling their best smile. In my experience, seeing them at their best, even if it's not something they're presenting at the moment, makes a ton of difference.
#51
Realizing defeat is a temporary thing that ends as soon as the next battle. When you get defeated, take your lesson, learn from it, and then try again. Failure is only possible if you fail to keep going and keep trying. And if the defeat is our final one, and we’re finally freed from our selves, we will have known that we were on the right path because we followed our victories despite our mistakes and went forward and prospered.
lol this is some good s**t man. .
#52
Marry the right person!! #1 Cheat code by far!!!
#53
Stop using your phone as much as possible. Your brain will start becoming incredible at memory, feeling calm, and your ability to focus will 10x.
#54
Kid throwing a tantrum? Have someone ask them what color shoes they're wearing. Works often. Not always. Turns their analytical mind on and distracts from the tantrum.
#56
When you are anxious or heart is beating really fast, take a really deep breath and right when you can’t breathe in much more take one little breath in. Hold it for a sec then exhale slowly from your mouth. Heard it in an Andrew Huberman podcast and it has helped my anxiety tremendously.
#57
Counting calories.
I did the no carbs thing, I exercised, tried to eat healthy whole foods. I didn’t bust my a*s or anything but I tried things here and there to lose weight and nothing worked.
Then I downloaded an app to help me count calories with a goal weight and goal time to get there and it was like a lightbulb moment. It was like, oh, that’s it? If you’re in a calorie deficit and getting even just sufficient exercise, you don’t need to do anything else. You don’t need to k**l yourself at the gym. It’s literally just eating less and learning where all your wasted calories were coming from. You realize how important protein is to make you full so you don’t have to keep eating to fill up and waste calories. A protein and fiber heavy meal will sustain you for so much longer.
Anyway, it’s an annoying answer, I know. But once you do it, you never go back to how you used to eat. .
#58
Write that s**t down. Get a notebook. Write down your to-dos, your projects, your plans. Get the stuff out of your brain and onto paper. Then follow the checklist.
#60
When I am anxiously ruminating on something embarrassing I said, I remind myself that no one else remembers this brief interaction but me.
#62
Being interested in others and talking less about yourself, this has helped me a ton networking in the music industry, I've gotten label releases as a nobody musician mostly for being friends with someone.
#63
Do the hard thing. Almost nobody does, and you'll stand out when you do.
It doesn't even take that long either.
#64
Be absolutely phenomenal at work for a month then cruise about for the next two by doing the bare minimum. Rinse & repeat for life.
#65
Quit drinking alcohol. Drink more water.
I sleep better and I don't feel like s**t all of the time.
#66
Just relax your face, not smile, but just activate the happy smiling muscles in your face rather than the grumpy ones. Then people will want to talk to you and just be more relaxed around you, provide you better customer service and so on.
#67
Remember someday that you will be dead and very little of all this b******t matters.
Works wonders on stressing out about stupid s**t, work, embarrassments, minor setbacks. So many little unimportant things drive us crazy, and for what? Find out what really matters to you, and let the rest slide.
The less f***s you give, the better life you will live.
Harry Gondalf 2 months ago
Yeah, i often reminded myself at work when we were furiously rushing about to meet some deadline: "On my deathbed am I going to glad that we shipped the 801A Spectrum Analyzer on schedule?"
#68
Compound interest.
Harry Gondalf 2 months ago
Paying an extra hundred or more on mortgage payments pays off big time. Where else can you get such a high return on interest?
#69
Freeganism is a thing if you don't give a f**k about what other people think.
In fact, life's biggest cheat code is not giving a f**k.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 2 months ago
You have to care, up to a point. Care enough so that you’re not a total âsshole. But don’t let anybody give you any bûllshit.
#71
Walking for 20-30 minutes directly after any meal results in significant weight loss when coupled up with strength training and eating clean in a deficit.
#72
If you want someone to like you, ask them for help (even if you could do it yourself) and praise them for how much you value them.
And I'm not talking weaponised incompetence, don't push your luck. Just one little simple thing.
#74
Be attractive, even if unconventionally so.
Judy Reynolds 2 months ago
How about being clean and easy to look at. Not sloppy, not dressing to get something from people, just easy to look at.
#75
Be in a happy receptive mood and the world and everything in the world are happy n giving goodness.
#76
When being served in a restaurant or bar, most people tip very well IF they get exceptional service.
If you tip them very well at the beginning, you are guaranteed exceptional service along with a bunch of free stuff that will exceed the tip you give them during your visit.
Also, when you come back, they will remember your name.
MeMosabe 1 month ago
Friends and I used to enjoy going to some bars or night clubs just for the live music. I don't drink, but these places are usually warm, so I'd need some fluids. I would give the server a tip at the beginning of the night and say, "Keep my water glass filled and there'll be more when we leave." It's cheaper than whatever else I could have gotten, and easy for them, and shows appreciation. It works.
#77
If a lot of worries in head, keep it in head and don’t act on them at night.
When you wake up the next morning, worries usually not so serious and grave anymore.
#78
Smile at people you meet. I work downtown at a decent sized city and, if someone smiles at me, it makes my day. So I try to smile at everyone I meet.
Jon Lee 1 month ago
Poem by Spike Milligan: Smiling is infectious, You catch it like the flu, When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too. I passed around the corner, And someone saw me grin, When he smiled I realised, I’d passed it on to him. I thought about that smile, Then realised it’s worth, A single smile just like mine, Could travel round the earth. So if you feel a smile begin, Don’t leave it undetected, Let’s start an epidemic quick, And get the world infected.
#79
Write your to-do list right before you start your day and immediately jump into the first task.
#80
Stop trying to multitask. Our brains aren’t designed for it. Do one task then do the next. Multitasking just makes all the tasks take longer and do a crappier job.
#81
If you get drunk at work, they let you go home early!
Judy Reynolds 2 months ago
Maybe once or twice, but you will have a permanent vacation if you do it too often.
SchadenFreudian Psychology 2 months ago
Yeah….permanently. If you decide to try this, do be smart about it. Kahlua in your coffee. Big jar of hand sanitizer on your desk, and let people see you using it. And stop at a slight buzz; don’t get sloppy drunk.
#82
Don’t make funny/snarky comments at work. It will be repeated.
#83
Use a paper clip to wedge down the control key so MS Teams will always show you in green. Also take a screenshot shot of a Teams meeting and set it as your background. This way if someone walks by it looks like you are in a meeting and they won't bother you.
Explore more of these tags
What do you think ?
Gavin Johnson 2 months ago
I heard an army training type chap describing the benefit to making your bed when you get up. He asserted that no matter how bad your day may get (and for new recruits that can be really bad, wet, cold, challenging, lonely, painful etc) you will get to your bed at the end of the day and it’ll be ready for you, you’ll thank yourself and the end of the day will be better than anything you’ve endured, a small victory for sure but it’s a victory nonetheless.
Rika 2 months ago
If you're a woman, don't get arrested by female cops - especially if you fit the beauty standards and/or you're promiscuous. You're very likely to be sl*t- shamed and treated like sh*t by women who got into the job to feel superior to men and "fight the patriarchy". You're their enemy if you like wearing miniskirts and sleeping around.
Gavin Johnson 2 months ago
I heard an army training type chap describing the benefit to making your bed when you get up. He asserted that no matter how bad your day may get (and for new recruits that can be really bad, wet, cold, challenging, lonely, painful etc) you will get to your bed at the end of the day and it’ll be ready for you, you’ll thank yourself and the end of the day will be better than anything you’ve endured, a small victory for sure but it’s a victory nonetheless.
Rika 2 months ago
If you're a woman, don't get arrested by female cops - especially if you fit the beauty standards and/or you're promiscuous. You're very likely to be sl*t- shamed and treated like sh*t by women who got into the job to feel superior to men and "fight the patriarchy". You're their enemy if you like wearing miniskirts and sleeping around.
You May Like “I Can’t Believe Other People Don’t Do This”: 43 People Share Their Best Life Hacks “What’s An Actual Psychological ‘Cheat Code’ You Use In Social Situations That Works Almost Every Time?” (46 Answers) Simple Life Hacks You Might Wish You Always Knew
Jonas Žvilius
Viktorija Ošikaitė
Žydrūnė Trukanavičiūtė
Related on Bored Panda
