Don’t Wait Until You’re 80 to Learn This

A few weeks ago, my friend Bruce Hunter sent me a short note that hit harder than most books I’ve read this year. It was a list of ten life lessons from an octogenarian—the kind of wisdom that comes only after decades of wins, losses, and the quiet in-between moments that shape who we are.

What struck me wasn’t simply the advice itself—it was how immediately applicable it felt. This wasn’t “someday when I’m older” guidance. It was right now guidance. The kind that makes you stop scrolling, start thinking, and maybe even change something before the day is over.

Here are those ten lessons, with a few reflections of my own along the way.

1. Network intensely.

Luck, as it turns out, has a lot to do with who you know—and who knows you. And the magic isn’t just in collecting contacts; it’s in nurturing them. Send that interesting article, make the introduction, spark a conversation. The more threads you weave, the stronger your net.

2. Read everything.

As we get older, our focus tends to narrow. That’s natural—and dangerous. Reading widely keeps your mental world expansive and gives you more tools to connect ideas. I’ve found that solutions often arrive from unexpected corners, and the more varied your knowledge, the more often those connections click into place.

3. Travel extensively.

Go before you can’t. This one hits me hard because travel has a way of making time feel richer. It changes the scale of your life. And health, unfortunately, doesn’t always ask permission before it starts limiting your range.

4. Relieve pain before spreading joy.

This one challenged me. Supporting large charities is wonderful, and if your resources are limited, look for places where your contribution changes the trajectory of someone’s life. A warm meal, a bed, spending time learning from an octogenarian—these are needs that make a difference in real time, for the recipient and for yourself.

5. Give a pat on the back.

Recognition is fuel. Whether in business, family, or friendships, taking a moment to acknowledge someone’s effort can make all the difference.

6. Make it personal.

A handwritten thank-you note is worth ten emails. In a world of AI and automation, intentional personal effort stands out.

7. Don’t try to be better—be different.

Competing in the same lane as everyone else rarely leads to lasting success. Rewrite the rules. Or better yet, change the game entirely.

8. Mentor someone.

Mentorship isn’t a one-way street. Every time I’ve mentored someone; I’ve learned just as much from them as they learned from me.

9. Each year, try something new.

It doesn’t have to be dramatic—though it can be—and it has to stretch you. Comfort zones shrink if you never leave them.

10. Never retire.

Purpose is non-negotiable. The shape of your work may change over the years, and having something to get up for every day is essential to a life well-lived.

When I finished reading Bruce’s note, I realized these weren’t simply “things to keep in mind for later.” They were a playbook for right now—practical ways to keep learning, contributing, and growing at any age.

You don’t need eight decades under your belt to put them into practice. In fact, the earlier you start, the better the compounding effect. And if you’re already in your 60s, 70s—or beyond—it’s never too late to add a little more adventure, curiosity, and purpose into the mix.

Because the real lesson here isn’t about age at all. It’s about living like time matters—starting today.

If you had to add an eleventh lesson, what would it be? I’d love to hear yours, email me today!