Life is complex and nobody has all the answers. However, sometimes even the things that we think should be common knowledge turn out to be not that common.
A couple of days ago, Reddit user Lowertier4848 made a post on the platform, asking everyone to share "cheat codes" in real life that are overlooked because of how few people use them.
From admitting your own mistakes to listening instead of talking during conversations, here are the ones that have climbed to the top of the discussion.
#1
If you hate everyone, have something to eat.
.
If you feel like everyone hates you, get some sleep.
.
If you hate yourself, have a shower.
.
If you hate the world, get out into nature.
Image credits: Gloomy_Use5525
#2
Honestly learning how to say no without feeling guilty is like a life cheat code it saves you so much time, energy and stress.
Image credits: Valentinaiuiu
We got in touch with the author of the post, who is actually quite new to Reddit, and they agreed to chat with us about it.
"[I got the idea to ask this question when] I was ... reflecting on how life can sometimes feel overwhelming, but there are always those little things you pick up that can make it easier, like tricks that save you time or stress," Lowertier4848 told Bored Panda.
"As a new Reddit user, I thought it would be fun to see what kinds of 'cheat codes' others have discovered. The question came to me when I realized how powerful some of these simple insights can be, and I wanted to see what the broader Reddit community thought."
#3
When you f**k up, admit your guilt and apologize. People will respect you. Deflecting and passing blame makes you look like an a*****e.
Image credits: MistaLuvcraft
#4
Listening to understand, not to reply. This is all the vast majority of people need for you to be on their good side.
Image credits: SpecialSauceSal
Lowertier4848 also said that as their post went viral, they recognized a few common topics.
"I've noticed a lot of answers centered around communication," the Redditor noted. "Another recurring theme is self-discipline, with people mentioning how small habits and consistent efforts can lead to big changes over time."
"It's interesting to see how many of these 'cheat codes' are things that we might overlook in daily life but can have a huge impact when applied."
#5
NOT GIVING A SINGLE F WHAT OTHERS THINK. I'm almost 51 and spent 50 yrs people pleasing,dieting,all of the things. For what?
So, the last year I've just done whatever I wanted.
It's a beautiful thing to give ZERO Fs.
True story.
Image credits: Competitive-Vast557
#6
Learning how to make use of all the free stuff provided by the local library - audiobooks, movie rentals, museum tickets, access to major newspaper publications, free wifi hotspot rentals, tax assistance, etc, etc, etc.
Image credits: mysteriouswayz
It makes sense that a lot of the answers center around emotional intelligence. Research by psychologist Dr. Travis Bradberry revealed that only 36 percent of people can be considered good at self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and social skills.
According to Bradberry, those who are, among other things, have more curiosity, embrace change, can accurately judge character, are difficult to offend, and appreciate what they have. Surely they know more "cheat codes" than the average folk.
#7
Showering when you're feeling down about yourself or mildly depressed.
Shower, then go outside for a walk, get some air. It does wonders.
Image credits: NotEvilCaligula
#8
Keeping your mouth shut and just observing.
Image credits: p0tty_mouth
"I think a big part of [people struggling with applying these seemingly simple real-life 'cheat codes'] is that, even though these principles seem obvious once you realize them, they're not always easy to spot," Lowertier4848 told us.
"Life moves fast, and people might not have the time to reflect and see these solutions. Plus, some 'cheat codes' take practice or a mindset shift to implement, and that's not always easy to do consistently. It's easy to overlook simple solutions when we're caught up in the complexity of our daily lives."
#9
Water. Seeing it, hearing it, being submerged in it, and most of all drinking it. I can’t count the number of times I felt like a new person after washing my face or showering immediately after a long day, or calmed down just by the sounds of rain or flowing water, felt rejuvenated after drinking it… honestly i’m surprised everyday by the healing effects of water. Can’t be overstated imo.
Image credits: AltruisticCup
#10
Getting enough sleep. It’s like a secret hack for everything—productivity, mood, health.
Image credits: lusciousxogirl
This suggests that older people are 'better' at life—they've had more time to collect the 'cheat codes' to it, including arguably the most valuable one, acceptance of the inevitable. One study found that people in their 40s and 50s expressed a greater fear of death than those in their 60s and 70s. A later meta-analysis of 49 papers confirmed this and said that fear of death grows in the first half of life, but by the time we hit the 61-to-87 age group, it recedes to a stable, manageable level.
#11
I hate to say it, but being thin. After losing a lot of weight, it's crazy how different the world treats you.
Image credits: codinginacrown
#12
"I have been disfellowshipped"
Permanently gets rid of Jehovah's Witness from ringing your doorbell.
Image credits: Flynn_lives
"We definitely learn some of these cheat codes through personal experience," Lowertier4848 said. "But I also think mindset and attitude are very crucial. Some people are quicker to adjust their mindset and spot opportunities for improvement, while others may need more time or a change in perspective to see these 'cheat codes.' It's about learning, but also being open to new ways of thinking."
#13
Being kind to people, even when you don’t have to be. Seriously, it’s like a life hack with hidden bonuses.
People tend to remember those who made them feel good, whether it’s a compliment, a simple “How’s your day?” or just listening when they’re having a rough one. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and builds connections in ways that are more powerful than people think.
Also, being kind doesn’t just help others; it makes *you* feel better too. It’s like a cheat code for leveling up in life, and it’s free!
Image credits: External_Hamster3621
#14
Regular exercise. During times in my life where I don't exercise, I slowly sink into anxiety and despair. A few weeks of good diet, little or no alcohol, and exercise every few days, it reverses completely and I feel like a different person.
Image credits: Lumpy_Principle3397
#15
Always thanking and acknowledging service workers. Tell the person bagging your groceries “Thanks for the help!”. Tell the person cleaning the restroom you are in “Thanks for keeping the restroom clean!” When you are paying your bill at the car dealership/local garage for service tell the person/cashier they were nice to work with. Tell the people that are fixing your plumbing you understand that although they couldn’t come out to your location yesterday you appreciated that that got the work done today.
Not only is this something you should just do. But these small acts of kindness come back in spades. All of the people at these places talk to each other and they all know who the a******s are and who the nice people are.
The next time you need something extra or have to make a call for a plumbing repair, etc. there is a good chance you are first on the list , or they will give you break. Possibly jump your car in the parking lot if your battery is dead. If you do it consistently and genuinely it will help you out someday.
#16
"Thank you for waiting" instead of "sorry I took so long." has made my general life and self esteem so much better. I do that with a lot of things now. "Thank you for listening!" instead of "sorry for talking so much" is great.
Image credits: PinkishBlurish
#17
Asking for help.
NeroFMX:
Accepting help.
Image credits: justtrustmeokay
#18
You're allowed to change your mind at any point in the process.
No matter how much money or time or emotion others have put into it.
You're gonna need this tip at least a few times in your life to avoid major f**k-ups.
#19
Cleaning *while* cooking.
#20
Minding your business is grossly underrated.
#21
Buying prescription glasses online. I used to pay $250-300 for glasses in a brick and mortar store and now I can get them for under $50 online.
Image credits: NoDanaOnlyZuuI
#22
Think before you speak, it's simple but they don't do it. Learning it makes you powerful.
Image credits: white_Cuteangel__
#23
Spending less than you make.
Seriously. It sounds stupid but a lot of people don’t really track their expenses. A lot of people fall prey to “I have it in the bank, so I can afford it.” Savings look small at first, but after a few years can add up to substantial amounts.
And I don’t mean people who have nothing left after rent, food and necessities. I mean people who get in the habit of treating themselves to things they can *technically* afford.
#24
Always poop on company time.
#25
Show up on time and show up to events you've committed to. People love to know you're trustworthy and pleasant to be around. You will be invited if you are the type of person who shows up when and where you say you will.
#26
A good reliable trustworthy partner.
Image credits: Leee33337
#27
Biking to and from work or school. One of the very rare life trifectas, you get exercise, you get to treat the environment better and you get to save commuting expenses.
Image credits: scrubjays
#28
Smiling at people - it seems to catch people off-guard often but they'll usually return the smile back. I've seen strangers' moods completely transform after a smile.
Also, a (non-creepy) genuine compliment or acknowledgement.
#29
I often feel lightheaded if I stand up too quickly since I have rather low blood pressure. If it occurs, instantly force the blood back upward by clenching your abdominal muscles.
Image credits: ammatume
#30
Building strong networks and connections. It’s like having a secret map to opportunities that others might miss.
Image credits: honeyxomilf
