Rewarding Life Lessons That Can Be Learned from the Elderly

In America, considerable attention is given to a youth culture while discrediting the wisdom of age. Psychologist Erik Erickson has contended that the Western fear of aging prevents people from living fullfilling lives: "Lacking a culturally viable ideal of old age, our civilization does not really harbor a concept of the whole of life." With the people's appearances being understood as a reality, older generations may be considered "out of date" in their society and irrelevant in their thinking. But, there is much that older people can teach younger ones.

As some might not expect, success is not defined in monetary terms by those who have reached their business world goals. For them, success is measured in love for others and from others. By providing a good example, many a leader has taught others that there is room for kindness and solicitude in business. Such is success.

Older individuals have learned that having a sense of purpose brings them a sense of fulfillment and success. While success often demands careful planning, many successful people have become so because of random acts they perceived as the right move. Watching for the opportune moment to act is important as it often leads to rewards.

Success and Happiness Are Measured in Different Ways

As some might not expect, success is not always defined in monetary terms by those who have reached their goals in the business world. Instead, success is measured in love for others and from others. Perhaps, through a good example, a leader has taught others that there is room for kindness and business care. Older individuals have learned that having a sense of purpose to which one devotes oneself outweighs a bigger paycheck.

While success often demands careful planning, many successful people have become so because of random acts that they perceived as the right move. Recognizing the opportune moment to act is important as it can lead to great results. Listening to those with age and experience also benefits leaders. What has worked in the past often brings success in the future with certain modifications for the new conditions.

Experience is a Great Teacher

What many younger people ignore about the older generation is the fact that their long-term semantic memory, unlike the short term memory, is usually resistant to the effects of aging. And, it is these recordings of life experiences and general knowledge that can provide younger people with meaningful life lessons and sound advice. Such consequential learned lessons enable others to avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and self-conceit so they can move purposely and more quickly toward personal success.