BY 李茗钰/YULI LI

This essay won Honorable Mention in the 1st HFLS CAL Writing Contest.

In today’s fast-paced world, young people often focus on innovation and the future, while overlooking the wisdom that older people possess. People usually ignore the fact that older generations hold invaluable lessons that can guide the youth in emotional management, decision-making, and self-resilience. The latest research in psychology and neuroscience reveals that the very qualities demonstrated by older people, which are neglected by modern society, may offer remedies for the emotional struggles of the younger generation. In this essay, I will explore the precious life advice that the younger generation can learn from their elders.

Firstly, the elderly individuals tend to remain emotionally stable when facing difficult situations. Having experienced personal losses, wars, and economic crises, they often put daily stressors into perspective more easily than younger people. A 2016 study titled “Psychology and Aging” found that people over 60 are more likely to recall positive memories than negative ones. Young people, often feeling overwhelmed by stress or failure, can benefit from cultivating calmness and accepting life’s uncertainties. Essentially, this emotional stability is supported by changes in the brain, accumulated life experiences, and a shift in priorities-all of which contribute to a more grounded outlook. Therefore, seeking their advice can provide valuable and experience-based support.

Secondly, older adults possess a wealth of life experience and cognitive maturity that make them invaluable advisors. They often offer balanced, thoughtful solutions rather than taking extreme actions. Research from the Max Planck Institute suggests that individuals over 60 are more adept at predicting long-term outcomes, as they tend to rely more on accumulated knowledge than on immediate emotions. Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most successful investors, offers advice to younger entrepreneurs, often citing the wisdom of older generations and emphasizing the importance of patience in making investment decisions. This results in decisions that are more rational, deliberate, and grounded- an essential trait for young people who may act impulsively under emotional stress.

Moreover, older people are economical and independent—especially those who lived through wars, recessions, or periods of scarcity. Many grew up in times without modern conveniences— no instant deliveries, digital services, or even rapid access to information. They learned how to repair and reuse some daily items instead of discarding them. They also possess strong habits of conserving resources, such as collecting rainwater or turning off unused lights. These actions are all valuable for us to follow. These habits not only promote sustainability but also serve as valuable lessons for today’s youth. My grandparents, for instance, often repair broken appliances or find creative solutions to everyday problems. For example, my grandmother never throws out a piece of clothing without first attempting to mend it. Her habits teach me to value what I have and use resources more wisely. The lifestyle shaped their resilience, adaptability, and true independence. They acknowledged the importance of practical skills, critical thinking, and inner strength.

In this technology-driven world, the senior citizens teach us how to embrace progress and inner strength. By honoring their experiences, we not only preserve their legacy but also cultivate a more mindful, resilient, and grounded way of living. Ultimately, their wisdom guides us toward a future built on independence, responsibility, and environmental values.