Why Some People Gain Common Sense Later in Life
The evolution of common sense is a fascinating phenomenon that often occurs later in life. Individuals may have navigated life's challenges once or twice before realizing the value of common sense. As they accumulate more experiences, they gather information or wisdom that profoundly impacts their decision-making and mindset.
It's intriguing to see how some people, especially those older in age, gain a wise mind after overcoming significant hurdles. This contrast with others who never seem to grow up or mature, no matter their age. Take, for instance, elderly individuals who were deeply entrenched in addictive behaviors but are only now willing to break free from these habits and understand their character flaws. It's essential to recognize that wisdom is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the path to maturity remains unique for each person.
Common Sense vs. Wisdom
People often confuse common sense with wisdom. While common sense involves basic understanding and practical knowledge, wisdom goes beyond that. With the advent of the Internet, access to knowledge has become universal, yet no system exists to guide us on how to apply this information effectively.
According to Uncle Ben's famous quote to Peter Parker, "With great power comes great responsibility." Similar to this, knowledge without wisdom is like being given the keys to a brand new Ferrari without a steering wheel. It can lead to destructive outcomes. Age and life experience, or wisdom, help us navigate through new situations without instantly reacting emotionally. Life experience allows us to avoid the "law of unintended consequences."
Life Experience and Common Sense
Life experience often serves as the foundation for common sense. Without accumulated experiences, common sense is hard to develop. For instance, many of us have had experiences that taught us something we wished we knew beforehand to avoid a similar situation. With time, we update our common sense, making better judgments in the future.
Ultimately, there are no shortcuts or YouTube videos to gaining wisdom. It requires living and acquiring more experiences to earn it. The human brain undergoes significant changes over time, which affect cognitive abilities. While it matures, certain areas show cognitive decline, leading to slower responses.
The Role of Experiences and Cognitive Decline
Experiences play a crucial role in the development of common sense. They teach us valuable lessons that we may not have known beforehand. For example, after encountering situations where common sense was lacking, individuals can grow and develop their common sense, making them better prepared for future challenges.
Age can also affect cognitive functions due to changes in hormone levels, particularly the drop in testosterone. However, it's essential to note that cognitive decline does not negate the ability to gain wisdom and commonsense through continued learning and life experiences.
Final Thoughts: Common sense is a result of life experiences, and while some people may gain this insight later in life, it's never too late to start.
Asmnopah, you must live and learn. Every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to the development of common sense and wisdom. Embrace life's lessons, and let your experiences shape your judgment and decision-making for a better future.