Best Habits You Should Start Doing in Your 40s (Besides Googling "Weird Knee Pain")

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Turning 40 isn’t a crisis—it’s a glow-up with creaky knees. This is the decade when bad habits come back with interest and good ones save your sanity. Ready to ditch chaos and embrace the semi-responsible, thriving adult life you deserve? These habits will help you slay your 40s—gracefully and sarcastically.

Drink Water Like It’s Your Job (Because Apparently, It Kinda Is)

A man with short dark hair and a beard drinks a glass of water in a modern kitchen. The caption underneath, posted by a user named "I_Try_Again," explains that as a microbiologist, it's important to keep fluids moving in the body to prevent bacteria from settling and invading tissues. The post emphasizes that staying hydrated helps flush bacteria through the digestive and urinary systems.

The elders have spoken: chug that H2O, you dehydrated bean. Forget your third iced coffee—your body is more raisin than grape at this point. Water is not a “wellness trend”; it’s the original life juice.

Hydration isn’t just for gym bros and beauty influencers. Your organs are literally begging you for moisture. And no, White Claw doesn’t count. If your pee glows in the dark, that’s a cry for help, not a party trick.

Pro tip from the wrinkle squad: Keep a water bottle with you at all times like it’s your emotional support animal. Bonus points if you give it a name and talk to it like it’s helping you survive the apocalypse.

Start a Retirement Fund Before You Know What One Is

A young couple sits closely at a table, looking intently at a laptop screen while surrounded by notebooks and papers, suggesting they're budgeting or planning finances. The caption below, from user "CappinPeanut," urges people to start saving for retirement early, emphasizing that even small efforts made while young are vital.

Apparently, the “future you” will want to retire somewhere other than a cardboard box under a bridge. Who knew? According to people who’ve seen more than one economic collapse, saving money early is the move.

Your 20s are for compound interest, not just compounding debt. That $50 you spend on Uber Eats three times a week? Yeah, that could’ve been the start of your yacht fund—or at least a solid used kayak.

It’s not sexy, but neither is working until you’re 83. Set it and forget it, and one day you’ll look at your retirement account and think, “Damn, I accidentally did something responsible.”

Wear Sunscreen Unless You’re Actively Trying to Look Like Leather

A close-up of a person’s arm by a poolside, with sunscreen being applied in a streak down the forearm. The caption, posted by "tomatopotatotomato," highlights the long-term anti-aging benefits of wearing sunscreen daily—even in cold climates—citing friends who skipped it and now have wrinkles in their thirties.

The elders have no chill when it comes to SPF. Want to avoid looking like a fried mozzarella stick by 40? Slather it on. Every. Day.

This isn’t just beach day behavior—it’s a lifestyle. Cloudy? Still wear it. Indoors? Windows exists. Midnight? Okay, fine, take a break. But in general, pretend a very slow-moving sun monster is hunting you.

Forget filters and Botox for a minute. Sunscreen is the anti-aging hack your grandma knew before it was cool—and she still looks like a porcelain doll while you’re out here flaking like a pastry.

Move Your Body or It’ll Betray You Later

A woman in a pink long-sleeve top stretches sideways in her living room while following a group workout video on TV, which shows people doing the same move in a gym. The caption by user "ItsElliott101" explains that stretching for 15–30 minutes after workouts helps relieve neck and shoulder pain, emphasizing the importance of post-exercise flexibility to avoid stiffness.

Old folks aren’t hitting the gym to get jacked—they’re just trying to bend over without pulling something. If you think mobility is a given, just wait until your back goes out from sneezing.

We’re not saying you must run marathons or do CrossFit (unless you hate joy). But a daily walk, stretch, or interpretive dance in your living room? Chef’s kiss. Your joints will thank you later—preferably with less creaking.

Treat exercise like flossing: annoying, but in the future, you will be smugly pain-free while everyone else is held together with KT tape and regret.

Stop Caring What People Think (Because They Barely Do Anyway)

A woman wearing a neon safety vest dances joyfully in what appears to be a warehouse or industrial space, smiling with her eyes closed and arms raised. The caption by user "jdith123" shares how liberating it feels to stop caring about others’ opinions in your mid-30s or 40s, even when doing things like taking out the trash in sleepwear, and recommends embracing that freedom.

Here’s a mind-blowing fact from the over-60 crowd: People are too busy worrying about their own nonsense to care about your awkward haircut or failed attempt at TikTok fame.

The sooner you realize that no one’s watching your every move like some Truman Show fever dream, the sooner you can wear socks with sandals in peace. Or, you know, pursue your weird passions unapologetically.

Confidence isn’t about being fearless—it’s about knowing everyone else is just as confused and hoping no one notices. The elderly cracked this code decades ago and are now living their best “IDGAF” lives.

Actually Talk to People Instead of Just Liking Their Instagram Stories

Two older women sit at a table outdoors, laughing joyfully with coffee mugs in front of them, clearly enjoying each other's company. The caption by "JCMiller23" reflects on how rare but powerful it feels to experience genuine connection and a sense of belonging, even if it only happens once in a lifetime.

Boomers aren’t perfect, but they did grow up in a world where human interaction wasn’t limited to group chats and emoji reactions. Revolutionary, I know.

Pick up the phone. Make eye contact. Send a birthday card that doesn’t involve a dancing minion. You’d be amazed how much better you feel after a real conversation—yes, even with your aunt who forwards weird chain emails.

Modern loneliness is a silent killer, and social media isn’t the antidote. It’s like eating cotton candy when you need a full meal—sweet but not remotely nourishing.

Learn Basic Life Skills Before It’s an Emergency

An older woman stirs a pot on the stove while a younger woman watches attentively beside her, both wearing aprons in a warm-toned kitchen. The caption by "Lazy_Trouble3325" shares a reflection on the importance of life skills like cooking and cleaning, noting how her brother didn’t learn basic chores until after marriage and realizing she could use some skill-building too.

Older adults are baffled that some of us can’t sew a button, change a tire, or boil water without calling for backup. And honestly? Fair.

Adulting is 30% knowing what to do and 70% pretending you do until Google loads. But there’s real power in mastering the basics—like not having a panic attack when your smoke detector starts beeping.

We’re not saying you need to go full pioneer mode, but if your only survival skill is “vibes,” you’re gonna have a rough time during literally any crisis.

Take Care of Your Teeth Unless You Like Smoothies Forever

An older man with glasses flosses his teeth in a modern bathroom, standing in front of a mirror and wearing a light green t-shirt. The caption by "Capelily" humorously states that “Life begins at 40!” and reminds readers to floss their teeth.

Let’s be honest—dental work is just glamorized torture. But you know what’s worse? Not doing it and ending up with a mouthful of regrets (and dentures that cost more than your car).

Old folks say floss like your future meals depend on it—because they do. Want to chew steak at 70? Better start treating those molars like VIP guests at an exclusive club.

Also, dentists can smell fear and neglect. Brush twice, floss once, and maybe stop using your teeth to open beer bottles. You know who you are.

Learn to Sit With Your Feelings Without Exploding or Ghosting

A tired-looking healthcare worker in navy scrubs sits on a staircase inside a hospital or clinic, resting his head on one hand with a thoughtful, downcast expression. The caption, posted by a now-deleted user, shares advice from their therapist about not distracting oneself from emotions, but instead sitting with them to understand their roots—suggesting that avoidance only delays healing.

Back then, emotions were things you buried deep under casserole dishes and passive-aggressive notes. But now? Mental health is in, and so is therapy.

Older adults who’ve been through some things say sitting with discomfort is a skill worth learning. Feelings are not the enemy—just weird little messengers trying to tell you you’re not okay (but, like, in a helpful way).

You don’t have to become a Zen monk, but maybe stop rage-tweeting or spiraling whenever someone texts “k.” Take a breath. Journal. Yell into a pillow. Just… evolve a little.

Save Yourself From Chaos With a Morning Routine (Yes, Really)

A woman in athletic wear drinks a glass of orange smoothie in a kitchen, with a blender and fresh fruits like bananas and apples on the counter in front of her. The caption by "lifting_and_coding" talks about how building a routine helped overcome procrastination, especially by starting each day with around four hours of focused deep work.

Grandma didn’t rise and shine because she liked it. She did it because a structured morning kept her from spiraling into existential dread by 10 a.m. Grandma was just onto something!

No one’s saying you need to do sunrise yoga while whispering affirmations into your almond milk latte. But a consistent start—stretch, hydrate, eat something that’s not a Pop-Tart—can make your day feel less like a runaway circus.

It’s like setting your life to “easy mode,” or at least “slightly less disastrous mode.” Your brain deserves that much.

Embrace Boredom Before It Becomes a Luxury

A woman relaxes on a lounge chair outdoors, sipping from a white mug while holding an open book in her lap. The caption by "davisx45ha" emphasizes the value of silence and taking mental breaks from the chaos of daily life, describing it as a reset for the brain that enhances clarity, focus, and peace.

Old folks remember a time when “bored” meant staring at a wall and not unlocking a new trauma. These days, we treat boredom like a virus—but it turns out it’s more of a vitamin.

Sitting still without stimulation is practically a superpower now. No TikTok, no doomscrolling, just you and your weird little thoughts. It’s how creativity happens. Or at least how you realize you’ve ignored a weird smell in your kitchen.

According to the elders, learning to sit in silence is how you discover things like inner peace—or at least remember where you left your keys. Either way, a win.

Keep a Clean Home So Your Soul Doesn’t Rot with Your Dishes

A woman in an apron and striped shirt is mopping the floor of an outdoor entryway near some potted plants and a small staircase. The caption, posted by a now-deleted user, shares a 90-minute weekend cleaning routine that includes mopping, dusting, decluttering, and doing dishes nightly—explaining that a clean home helps them feel more mentally organized and less stressed.

Nothing screams “adulthood” like a vacuumed floor and a fridge that isn’t auditioning for a science experiment. Older adults swear by cleanliness, and not just to avoid living in a frat house well into your 30s.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about not tripping over laundry and wondering if that thing in the corner is alive. Clean spaces equal clean minds—or at least fewer stress-induced breakdowns while searching for a charger.

Do it like the old-school pros: pick a day, blast some questionable music, and clean like your in-laws are about to drop by unannounced with judgment in their eyes.

Learn to Cook More Than Noodles and Regret

A man in a rust-colored t-shirt is cooking in a stylish kitchen, focused as he spoons food into a white bowl. The caption by user "aysurcouf" cheekily suggests that cooking can boost romantic appeal, joking that his success rate was so high he avoids cooking at family gatherings now.

Older adults have been whipping up full-course meals since before meal kits were even a glimmer in some start-up bro’s eyes. And they’re right—knowing how to cook is a life-changer.

Not only will it save you from blowing your entire paycheck on takeout, but it also gives you power. Real power. The “I made this soup from scratch” kind of power. It’s practically a love language—with yourself.

Also, cooking is therapy with calories. Stir your feelings, sauté your anxieties, and pretend that chopping onions is why you’re crying. Chef’s kiss, baby.

Be Early Like It’s Your Religion

A silver-haired man in a blazer and sweater sits alone on a well-lit train, gazing out the window with a peaceful smile. The caption by "FlatulenceIsAVirtue" quotes the old saying, “Early to rest, early to rise, makes a person healthy, wealthy, and wise,” adding a humorous note that wealth isn’t guaranteed, but the advice still holds value.

One thing about Boomers is that they show up early, as if it’s a competitive sport! It doesn’t make you a nerd—it makes you the only one not sprinting through life with a panic attack.

Being early is the adult version of being cool. It means you’re calm and collected, not the person barging in 10 minutes late blaming “traffic” when everyone knows you were arguing with your cat.

Try it once. Show up early, grab a coffee, and bask in the calm before the chaos. It’s so luxurious you’ll start to think you invented time.

Stop Burning Every Bridge Just to Light Your Way

A couple sits on a gray couch in a serious conversation; the man gestures with one hand while the woman leans forward, both with concerned expressions. The caption by "DeejayPleazure" emphasizes that communication is key to relationship success and that many relationships fail when one person feels unable to express themselves freely.

One of the juiciest nuggets from the elder wisdom buffet: don’t blow up every relationship the second it gets mildly inconvenient. You might need those people later, even if it’s just to help move a couch.

Not every disagreement needs to be a dramatic unfollow or a subtweet. Sometimes, you can just… talk it out like a grown adult who’s seen at least two seasons of therapy TikTok.

Old people have friendships that span decades because they figured out how to have a fight without declaring emotional war. Be like them. Save the flamethrower for real emergencies.

Read a Book With Pages, You Digital Goblin

A young man sits comfortably on a couch by the window, smiling as he reads a hardcover book. The caption by "Rubysage3" expresses a love for physical books—their look, feel, and even smell—saying they offer a better reading experience than screens and help with disconnecting.

Remember books? Those papery things that don’t vibrate or scream at you with notifications? Older adults say reading occasionally might save your brain from total meltdown.

Reading helps you escape, learn, and maybe even concentrate on something for longer than a microwave timer. Plus, it builds empathy—something your comment section sorely lacks.

Start small. Read one chapter. Feel your neurons high-five each other. Suddenly, you’re cultured and mysterious. Someone might even call you “well-read” instead of “chronically online.”

Make a Budget Before You Make Another Mistake

A hand uses a smartphone calculator showing the number 127,761, surrounded by a notepad, financial documents, a magnifying glass, and a keyboard. The caption by "Default87" explains that while budgeting may seem less necessary as income grows, a detailed budget is still key to optimizing spending and boosting long-term wealth.

The boomers, in between buying houses for the price of a sandwich, also figured out how to budget. And they think you should, too.

Budgeting doesn’t mean killing all your joy. It means tracking how many iced matcha lattes stand between you and affording soap. Awareness is power. Or at least the difference between rent and ramen.

Spreadsheets don’t bite, and neither do budgeting apps—unless you count the emotional damage of seeing where your money actually goes. (Hint: it’s snacks and emotional purchases.)

Take Breaks Before Your Body Forces You To

A woman relaxes in a cozy hammock on a balcony, surrounded by plants and sunlight, with her legs up and a peaceful smile on her face. The caption by "Slagerlagger" compares the mind to a muscle, saying that just like physical exercise requires rest, the brain also needs breaks—suggesting short breaks every 30 minutes and longer ones throughout the day to stay mentally efficient.

Here’s a radical concept from the geriatric generation: rest before you collapse. Wild, right? They actually take naps on purpose—like, not from sheer exhaustion, but because they value feeling human.

Hustle culture will tell you to “sleep when you’re dead,” but that’s also how you fast-track that whole process. Meanwhile, old folks are over here with their daily walks, afternoon tea, and fully functioning spines.

Listen to your body when it whispers, not when it screams and files a lawsuit. Breaks aren’t weak—they’re maintenance. And you, my friend, are a high-mileage machine.

Know the Difference Between Alone and Lonely

A young woman with a ponytail sits alone on a couch, hugging her knees and looking out a bright window with a thoughtful expression. The caption by "Ok-Technician-4370" asserts that being alone is always better than staying in a toxic relationship.

Older adults know solitude like a favorite sweater—cozy, familiar, and occasionally covered in cat hair. They’ve mastered the art of being alone without spiraling into existential dread.

Being alone doesn’t mean you’re unloved—it just means you can watch whatever you want and eat snacks in bed without judgment. Absolute bliss, really.

Loneliness hits differently when you don’t know how to be with yourself. Learn it now, before you start texting your ex just because you’re bored and emotionally illiterate.

Practice Gratitude Without Being a Cringe Pinterest Board

An older woman with curly hair and glasses smiles warmly as she looks out a window, sunlight softly illuminating her face. The caption by "DixieBelleTc" shares her gratitude for life after being diagnosed with a type of blood cancer 10 years ago, and celebrates being stable for the past 27 months.

They might not scream “gratitude journal” energy, but Boomers are surprisingly good at appreciating the little things. Like birds. And soft socks. And when their knees don’t pop like bubble wrap.

Gratitude doesn’t have to be cheesy or involve glitter pens. Just notice stuff. Good coffee. A funny dog. The fact that you didn’t stub your toe today. That’s growth.

You don’t need to become a motivational speaker, but maybe stop treating everything like a disaster and acknowledge that sometimes, things are… kinda okay? Weird but possible.

Rewear Clothes Without Screaming “I Have Nothing to Wear!”

A woman stands with her arms crossed, smirking at a closet full of clothes with a mix of neutral and colorful garments hanging neatly. The caption by "Dabbles-In-Irony" critiques the term “outfit repeating,” arguing that it’s just wearing your clothes and a clear example of capitalist marketing.

Adults in their 40s invented outfit repeating because they didn’t have fast fashion and 30 credit cards. And guess what? No one cared that they had worn the same flannel every Thursday since 1982.

Normalize outfit recycling. Laundry isn’t a runway. Jeans don’t expire after two wears. Repeating clothes doesn’t mean you’re out of ideas—it means you’re not contributing to the textile apocalypse.

Also, fewer decisions = less morning brain fog. Boomers were right: it’s not laziness; it’s genius-level resource management.

Keep Learning or Prepare to Become an Outdated Meme

An older man wearing a gray polo shirt and earphones smiles as he writes in a notebook while sitting in front of a laptop. The caption by "AwfulUsername123" mentions that studies show learning new things is beneficial for brain health and may help reduce dementia risk.

Who told you Boomers stopped learning after school? No, they just switched from textbooks to YouTube tutorials on how to unclog a drain without dying. The point is, they keep that brain active.

You don’t have to become a trivia champ or go full Socrates, but learning new stuff keeps life spicy. Also, you’ll be less annoying at parties if you can talk about literally anything besides your ex or astrology.

Whether it’s pottery, coding, or finally figuring out what the cloud actually is—never stop collecting weird little facts to impress strangers or crush your future pub quiz team.

Develop a Hobby That Doesn’t Involve Scrolling or Screaming

An older man and woman laugh joyfully while painting pottery at a table, surrounded by colorful painted dishes on a wall behind them. The caption by "FlashyImprovement5" shares the joy of hobbies that result in tangible rewards—like sewing, knitting, and baking—where each creative effort leads to something usable or enjoyable.

Old people knit, garden, whittle wood, or build birdhouses that no bird will ever use. Why? Because hobbies are cheaper than therapy and less destructive than retail “therapy.”

Not everything has to be monetized or turned into a personal brand. Sometimes, it’s just about making tiny clay frogs because it makes your soul feel a little less dead.

Find your thing. Paint badly. Learn chess. Build LEGO castles even if you’re 37 and SINGLE. If it makes your brain light up and doesn’t require a screen, congratulations—you’re officially doing better than 80% of us.

Say “No” Without Explaining Like You’re in Court

An older man wearing glasses, a flat cap, and a teal sweater sits in a cozy living room, holding his hand up in a stop gesture with a serious expression. The caption by "WilsonMagna" emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and how saying no is an act of self-respect that also creates space to say yes to more meaningful things.

Boomers, for all their quirks, are elite at setting boundaries! If they don’t want to go somewhere, they just… don’t. No fake cough. No over-apologizing. Just a simple, soul-cleansing “no.”

Meanwhile, millennials and Gen Z will write a 12-paragraph excuse and fake a family emergency to avoid brunch. Take a page from the elder playbook and save yourself the performance.

No is a full sentence. It doesn’t need a PowerPoint or tears. Try it. Say no to that thing you don’t want to do. Now, enjoy the sweet, sweet nectar of freedom.

Invest in Comfortable Shoes Unless You Hate Yourself

Here’s a harsh truth the oldies are not shy about: if your shoes are cute but your feet hurt, you’ve made a critical life error. They ditched vanity decades ago and are now walking on literal clouds.

You might feel immortal now, but wait until your knees start making decisions for you. Supportive shoes aren’t a sign of giving up—they’re a declaration of war against plantar fasciitis.

You can still slay without limping. Comfort is sexy. Arch support is hot. And Crocs? Controversial, yes, but they didn’t get popular again by accident.

Know When to Shut Up (Seriously)

A woman bathed in moody pink and purple lighting looks at her phone with a focused expression, her fingers gently holding the glowing screen. The caption by "lostdarkstarx" on r/DeepThoughts reflects on how knowing when to stay silent in a conversation is a deeply underrated and difficult skill, tied to social awareness and active listening.

If you want to survive adulthood in the 40s, then learn not to say every single thing you think out loud. Radical, right? Especially in a world where oversharing is practically currency.

You don’t have to comment on every post. You don’t need to correct someone at every turn. Sometimes, silence is the most powerful mic drop. Also, it’s peaceful, like a nap for your social energy.

Not everything requires your input. Let some things go. The world won’t crumble if you don’t win the argument about pineapple on pizza.

Keep a Physical Calendar Because Your Brain Will Betray You

A woman in a cozy mint-green sweater smiles as she writes on a wall calendar in her kitchen while holding a yellow mug. The caption by "AstralWeekss" explains her habit of writing one sentence a day on the calendar to capture daily memories—a tradition passed down from her grandmother that allows her to reflect back over the years.

Boomers keep paper calendars with little notes like “call dentist” or “Karen’s weird birthday.” And while it seems quaint, it’s actually genius. Your memory is a liar. Don’t trust it.

Phones die. Apps crash. Your brain deletes things out of spite. But a calendar? Solid. Tangible. Waiting quietly to save you from missing your cat’s vet appointment or double-booking brunch and jury duty.

Also, there’s something satisfying about crossing off a to-do list with a real pen. It’s adult gold-star energy, and it hits harder than any notification ever will.

Write Things Down Before They Evaporate From Your Head

A woman sits on a couch with a cozy pillow behind her, intently writing in a notebook with a pen in one hand and a pencil in the other. The caption by "JWChang-11421" explains that writing things down can help free up the brain’s limited active memory, allowing better focus on important tasks.

Old folks write notes for everything—groceries, birthdays, thoughts, dreams, beefs with Sharon from bridge club. Why? Because they know the mind is not a filing cabinet. It’s a chaotic sock drawer.

Keep a notebook. Or a sticky pad. Or a napkin. Anything. Capture those flashes of brilliance before they vanish into the mental void where all your forgotten passwords live.

You’ll thank yourself when you find a scribbled reminder that says “check tire pressure” instead of realizing it three hours into a road trip from hell.

Visit the Doctor Before You’re Actively Dying

A doctor gently examines a female patient’s neck during a medical consultation, both appearing calm and focused in a brightly lit clinic room. The caption by "cantgetintomyacct" encourages people to seek medical care even if unsure something is wrong, noting that medical professionals are there to help, not judge—advice passed down from the user’s career nurse mother.

Here’s a shocker: preventive care is a thing. Older adults actually go to the doctor when things might be wrong, not just when their organs are sending Morse code messages.

Yes, healthcare is a mess, but skipping every check-up because “I feel fine” is like ignoring your smoke alarm because there’s no visible fire—yet.

Get your teeth cleaned. Get that mole looked at. Stop pretending you’re invincible just because you drink smoothies. Modern medicine exists—use it before your body files a formal complaint.

Be Kind Without Expecting a Trophy

A smiling man in glasses and a blue shirt hands a paper grocery bag to an older woman standing in a doorway. The caption by "hometowngypsy" reflects on how being kind leads to happiness and peace of mind, contrasting it with the regret that can follow losing your temper.

Older generations mastered the art of being kind quietly. They hold doors, return shopping carts, and say “please” without needing a viral post about it.

You don’t need a standing ovation for being a decent human. Be kind because the world is chaotic, and people are tired. Also, it just makes you less insufferable to be around.

Kindness isn’t weakness. It’s resilience. And it makes the grocery store 7% less hellish, which is a win for everyone involved.

Don’t Rely on Motivation—Rely on Habits (Or Bribes)

An older woman in a striped sweater smiles warmly as she tends to a tray of potted plants on a sunlit table. The caption by "SummerSadness8" shares a habit-building tip: attach new routines to actions you already do daily, like brushing teeth or drinking water, to make them stick more easily.

Have you already figured out that motivation is just a flaky friend who shows up late and leaves early? Boomers did. So, instead, they build habits, routines, and the occasional spite-fueled schedule.

Waiting to “feel like it” is a great way to never do anything. The boomers? They don’t wait for a muse—they just make the dang bed, eat the oatmeal, and go on with their lives.

If all else fails, bribe yourself. Do the dishes, then eat a cookie. Fold laundry, then binge that weird docuseries about doomsday preppers. Productivity by manipulation? Very on-brand.

Keep a Stash of Emergency Cash (And Not Just for Tacos)

A person pulls a stack of U.S. $50 bills from a hidden stash inside a purple knitted sweater, stored in a drawer filled with folded clothes. The caption by "SimplyCedric" explains that they keep about £500 in cash at home in case of ATM failures, power outages, or card issues—just in case of emergencies.

There was a time when you couldn’t just Venmo your way out of a crisis, and boomers remember it well. That’s why they always kept a wad of cash somewhere—usually in a coffee can, next to expired batteries and deep-seated distrust.

You never know when you’ll need to flee, tip, or pay someone off to pretend they didn’t see you trip over a parking cone. Cash is king, and not just at sketchy diners and farmer’s markets.

Keep a stash in your sock drawer, glove box, or an old Altoids tin labeled “paper clips.” You’ll thank yourself when the power’s out and your card reader’s having an identity crisis.

Learn to Apologize Without Performing an Emotional Broadway Show

A woman sits on the edge of a bed looking sad and turned away while a man behind her reaches out gently, appearing remorseful. The caption, posted by a now-deleted user, stresses that a sincere apology or effort to make amends should center the other person's feelings—not the one apologizing.

Sure, Boomers are not the reigning champs of vulnerability, but they do understand the value of a clean, concise “I’m sorry.” No weepy monologues. No passive-aggressive subtweets. Just straight-up accountability.

Apologizing isn’t about groveling until someone feels too awkward to stay mad. It’s about owning your garbage, fixing what you can, and then—not doing it again. Revolutionary.

Say it like you mean it, fix the mess, and move on. Nobody needs a tearful TED Talk about why you forgot their birthday. Just admit it. You’re not special. You’re just late.

Don’t Expect Life to Be Fair—Just Try to Be Slightly Less Dumb Than Yesterday

A woman in a tan coat stands outdoors in a city setting, leaning on a railing and gazing thoughtfully into the distance as people pass by in the background. The caption by "Joshs-68" reflects on life’s inherent unfairness and encourages embracing challenges, saying that pushing through the struggle leads to growth and freedom.

Boomers, having survived both disco and dial-up, know life doesn’t come with a fairness guarantee. The sooner you stop expecting karma to act like DoorDash, the happier you’ll be.

Unfair stuff happens. People suck. Bosses are weird. Algorithms are cruel. But instead of whining into the void, try doing the next smart thing. One smart thing. Per day. That’s all.

Keep the bar low but moving. Don’t compare yourself to billionaires or Instagram couples who pretend they don’t argue about thermostat settings. Just be 1% less chaotic than last Tuesday. That’s growth, darling.

Prioritize Sleep Like It’s an Oscar-Winning Performance

A woman sleeps peacefully in bed, wearing a green shirt with one arm resting above her head, while a phone lies nearby on the sheets. The caption by "feel-the-avocado" explains that during REM sleep, spinal fluid helps flush out plaque that builds up in the brain during waking hours, highlighting the cleansing power of deep sleep.

If there’s something older adults don’t mess with, it’s their sleep! They treat bedtime like a sacred ritual, complete with chamomile tea and passive-aggressive sighing if anyone dares make noise past 9 p.m.

Sleep isn’t optional. It’s not a suggestion. It’s the foundational software update your body needs to not completely combust. You can’t out-hustle biology with caffeine and vibes alone.

Normalize choosing sleep over FOMO. Sleep is how your body says, “Hey bestie, I love you. Let’s not die today.” Respect that relationship. Invest in blackout curtains. Become one with the pillow.

Know How to Fix at Least One Thing in Your House That’s Broken (Other Than Yourself)

A woman leans over a kitchen sink, focused as she uses a screwdriver to repair a faucet while wearing overalls and a red shirt. The caption by "VivaLaPlutoFudgeYou" highlights the lifelong value of learning basic repair skills, pointing out that fixing small issues can save significant money and prevent unnecessary waste.

Boomers didn’t have YouTube, yet they still managed to unclog sinks, patch drywall, and survive IKEA instructions. Meanwhile, we’re out here summoning spirits to figure out how to reset a router.

You don’t have to be a full DIY deity, but pick one thing. Learn to change a fuse. Fix a leaky faucet. Patch a hole in the wall before your landlord finds out you rage-punched it.

There’s power in being a tiny bit self-sufficient. And nothing hits quite like the smug satisfaction of fixing something without texting your dad or Googling “why is everything broken.”

Call Your Loved Ones Before the Guilt Hits You Like a Dump Truck

A woman smiles as she talks on the phone while riding a train, seated next to a window with a coffee cup on the tray beside her. The caption by "Own-Advantage-239" encourages staying in touch with loved ones after college, explaining that the relationship may shift from a disciplinary one to a more supportive, friendly connection—and they still want to hear about your life.

If there’s one thing boomers absolutely dominate at, it’s calling people for no reason other than “I was thinking of you.” Meanwhile, your screen time is 9 hours, and your mom hasn’t heard your voice since March.

Pick up the phone. Not a text. Not a meme. A full-blown, awkward, possibly voicemail-leaving phone call. It’s weird at first, but then kinda nice, like warm socks or surprise mozzarella sticks.

Call your people while they’re still around to answer before you cry in the produce aisle because a song reminded you of Grandma’s lasagna.

Cultivate Patience So You Don’t Spontaneously Combust in Traffic

A man in a backwards cap leans on his steering wheel, gazing thoughtfully out the car window with his chin resting on his hand. The caption by "lambertb" reflects on the power of patience, stating that letting time pass without reacting can be a superpower—since most problems fade with time and everything is temporary.

Patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a survival skill. Older adults have spent years standing in line, waiting for dial-up, and holding while a human receptionist “transfers your call.”

Meanwhile, you’re out here rage-quitting apps because they take three seconds to load. Spoiler alert: The world doesn’t care about your need for instant gratification.

Breathe. Chill. Embrace the slowness. Let people merge. Wait your turn. Your blood pressure will thank you, as will the innocent barista who had nothing to do with your late mobile order.

Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously—You’re Literally Stardust With Anxiety

A group of older men laugh heartily while holding drinks in a lively bar setting, clearly enjoying each other’s company. The caption by "pmoverton5" features a quote from Van Wilder: “Never take life too seriously, nobody ever makes it out alive anyway,” noting its unexpectedly profound message.

Finally, the most boomer-approved advice of all: lighten up. Laugh at yourself. Make fun of your own drama. Stop treating every life hiccup like an Emmy-nominated tragedy.

The elders have tripped, failed, farted in elevators, and made fashion decisions that would get them banned from Instagram. And you know what? They survived.

You’re not that deep. You’re a cosmic blip with a phone addiction and a tendency to overshare. So giggle. Snort. Laugh when you spill coffee on your shirt right before a meeting. That’s the human experience, baby.

Love Yourself Like You’re the Only Person Who’ll Put Your Shopping Cart Back

A woman in a pink top smiles at herself in the mirror after drawing a heart around her reflection with red lipstick. The caption by "stoicism_mentor" reflects on self-love, quoting Socrates’ teaching to “Know Thyself,” suggesting that true self-love starts with self-awareness and understanding.

Self-respect isn’t just bubble baths and pretending your “self-care” candle fixed your life. Boomers show self-love by doing unsexy stuff like paying bills on time and flossing consistently.

Be the person who cares enough to return the cart. The person who wears real pants to the airport. The person who knows their worth—even if they’re currently crying into a box of Cheez-Its.

You’re not perfect. No one is. But you can be solid. Reliable. Slightly less of a public menace. And that? That’s the real glow-up.

Don’t Buy Crap You Don’t Need to Impress People You Don’t Like

A woman with curly red hair shows a television to a man in an electronics store, both crouched down and engaged in discussion. The caption by "Chazzyphant" shares a personal mantra: appreciating or admiring something doesn’t mean you need to buy it—ownership isn’t required for meaningful appreciation.

Boomers have lived long enough to realize that 90% of the stuff you own ends up in a garage sale or guilt-donation pile. They’re done flexing. They now value usefulness over sparkle.

That $200 “aesthetic” blender? Cute, but does it blend or just look good next to your anxiety meds? Meanwhile, your grandma’s 1994 crockpot still works and doubles as a weapon in case of intruders.

Impress people with your wit, kindness, or uncanny ability to guess the right Tupperware lid on the first try—not your “statement lamp.”

Practice Delayed Gratification Without Exploding

A man stares intently at an hourglass resting on a laptop, the sand halfway through as sunlight casts shadows across the desk. The caption from a deleted user discusses the dangers of constant gratification and highlights how delayed gratification builds patience, perseverance, and mental strength—even when progress isn’t immediately visible.

You want the shiny thing, the fun thing, and you want it now. But boomers? They had to wait for stuff. Mail took days, and photos took weeks. Gratification was a slow, torturous dance.

They learned to be patient because they had no choice—and survived. You, however, rage when your burrito takes more than 15 minutes. Chill. Practice the art of waiting.

Skip one impulse buy, and watch your bank account blink in confused gratitude. Delay the dopamine and savor it when it finally comes, like a slow-roasted brisket of satisfaction.

Learn People’s Names. Then Actually Use Them.

No one can do elite name-dropping like Boomers! But in a good way. Like, “How’s your cousin Jared who was applying to that tech job in Cleveland?” and you’re like, “Oh wow, someone remembered me beyond my Instagram handle.”

Using someone’s name makes them feel like a real human and not just another blurry avatar. It’s like conversational magic, but free and not weird (unless you whisper it like Voldemort).

Learn names. Say them out loud. Impress people with your memory, and pretend you didn’t just check your Notes app before this interaction.

Invest in a Real Coat—Your Fashionable Hypothermia Isn’t Cute

Close-up of a person holding a beige wool pea coat on a hanger in a closet. The caption describes a Redditor’s long-term satisfaction with a $300 pea coat purchased in 2006, which they continue to maintain through alterations and fabric updates, calling it their best “buy-it-for-life” investment.

You know who doesn’t freeze for clout? Boomers. They’ve been through enough winters to know that warmth > style. And they will 100% judge you for wearing a jacket made of lies and hope.

That cropped denim jacket isn’t saving you in a snowstorm, sweetie. Get a coat that could survive a blizzard, a breakup, and possibly a bear attack. One with zippers. One with pockets. Multiple.

Sure, you may look like a marshmallow. But a smug, warm marshmallow who still has all their toes intact. Functional fashion is in. Shivering for selfies is out.

Don’t Make Work Your Entire Personality—Unless You’re a Fire-Breathing Dragon

A man in business attire sits at his desk in front of dual monitors, rubbing his eyes in exhaustion while holding his glasses. A small espresso cup and glass of water sit beside him, reflecting burnout from overwork. The caption warns that being consumed by work can make life pass quickly, damaging relationships and health.

Boomers may have been a little too into the whole “live to work” thing, but the wise ones learned balance eventually—usually after their third ulcer or a soul-crushing middle manager named Diane.

Your job is not your identity. It pays your bills, not your self-worth. You can rest, have hobbies, and not answer emails while sobbing on a treadmill.

Be excellent at what you do, sure. But also be excellent at being human, taking breaks, and not sacrificing your sanity for performance reviews written by a guy who owns 11 novelty mugs.

Best Habits You Should Start Doing in Your 40s (Besides Googling “Weird Knee Pain”)