15 Harsh Truths About Life They Should Teach In School (But Don’t)
lev dolgachov School teaches you a lot of things — maths, science, literature, and if you’re lucky, a bit of personal budgeting.
However, there are some harsh truths about life that you’re left to figure out on your own. What’s crazy is that learning these lessons early on would have saved you a lot of frustration, heartache, and self-doubt in life. Instead, you were left to figure them out the hard way, and it really sucked.
1. Your dream job might not exist.
You’ve been asked “What do you want to be when you grow up?” since you were old enough to talk. But the reality is, your perfect job might not exist. You might have to carve your own path, combine different passions, or settle for something that’s not quite your dream — and that’s okay. Your job doesn’t define you, and you can find fulfilment in many different ways.
2. People will let you down.
Source: Unsplash Even the most well-intentioned people in your life will disappoint you at some point. They’ll forget important dates, fail to keep promises, or just not be there when you need them. It’s not because they’re bad people, it’s because they’re human. Learning to forgive, set boundaries, and manage your expectations is key to maintaining healthy relationships.
3. Failure is inevitable.
No matter how smart, talented, or prepared you are, you will fail at some things. You’ll get rejected, make mistakes, and fall short of your goals. But failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s a necessary part of it. Every failure teaches you something and brings you one step closer to where you want to be.
4. Your parents aren’t always right.
As a child, you probably thought your parents had all the answers. But as you grow up, you realise that they’re just people, figuring it out as they go along like everyone else. They might give you bad advice, have outdated beliefs, or just not understand your perspective. Learning to think for yourself and make your own decisions is a crucial part of adulting.
5. Money matters more than you think.
You might have grown up hearing that money can’t buy happiness, but the truth is, money matters a lot. It buys you freedom, security, and options. It can make the difference between pursuing your passions and being stuck in a job you hate. Learning to budget, save, and invest early on can set you up for a much more comfortable and fulfilling life.
6. Your health is your most valuable asset.
Source: Unsplash You might be young and invincible now, but trust me, your health is everything. Without it, nothing else matters. But society often prioritises productivity over self-care, and it’s easy to neglect your physical and mental health in the pursuit of other goals. Making your well-being a priority is not selfish, it’s necessary.
7. People’s opinions of you aren’t your business.
Source: Unsplash You could be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there will still be people who don’t like peaches. You can’t control what others think of you, and trying to do so is a recipe for misery. What matters is how you see yourself. Other people’s opinions are more about them than they are about you.
8. Your thoughts create your reality.
Source: Unsplash Your mind is incredibly powerful. What you focus on, you attract more of. If you constantly dwell on negative thoughts, you’ll start to see everything through that lens. But if you make a conscious effort to think positively and focus on what you want, you’ll be amazed at how your reality starts to shift.
9. Comparison really is is the thief of joy.
Source: Unsplash Thanks to the prevalence of social media, it’s easier than ever to compare yourself to other people. But you’re only seeing their highlight reel, not the full picture. Comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s curated feed is a guaranteed way to feel inadequate. Instead, focus on your own journey and celebrate your own progress.
10. Comfort zones are where dreams go to die.
Source: Unsplash If you want to grow, you have to get uncomfortable. Staying in your comfort zone might feel safe, but it’s also stagnant and ultimately kinda depressing. Pushing yourself to try new things, take risks, and face your fears is how you expand your horizons and reach your full potential. Discomfort is a sign that you’re growing.
11. Life isn’t fair.
Bad things happen to good people, and good things happen to bad people. Life doesn’t always make sense, and it rarely feels fair. That being said, dwelling on the injustice of it all doesn’t change anything. The sooner you accept that life isn’t fair, the sooner you can focus on what you can control and make the best of the hand you’re dealt.
12. Happiness is a choice.
Source: Unsplash We all have the power to choose our perspective and mindset. Happiness isn’t something that happens to you, it’s something you cultivate from within. Sure, external circumstances can make it easier or harder, but ultimately, you decide whether to focus on the good or the bad. Choosing happiness isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
13. People come and go.
Source: Unsplash Some friends are for a reason, some are for a season, and some are for a lifetime, as the old saying goes. People will enter and exit your life at different stages, and that’s normal. Don’t cling too tightly to those who are meant to leave, and don’t take for granted those who stay. Appreciate the people in your life while you have them, but also know that it’s okay to let go.
14. Your gut knows more than you think.
Your intuition is a powerful tool, but we’re often taught to ignore it in favour of logic and reason. However, your gut feelings are often your subconscious mind picking up on subtle cues and patterns that your conscious mind hasn’t processed yet. Learning to trust your instincts can save you a lot of time and heartache.
15. The journey is more important than the destination.
Source: Unsplash We often get so focused on achieving our goals that we forget to enjoy the process. But the truth is, the journey is where the real growth and magic happens. The challenges, the lessons, the memories — that’s what shapes you as a person. Don’t get so caught up in the end result that you miss out on the beauty of the journey.
