Personal Development

10 Bitter Truths No One Wants to Hear about Life

Published by
Sherrie Hurd, A.A.

No one really wants to hear bitter truths about life, but they are essential for growth. If you’re thriving off surface-level pleasantries, your wake-up call is coming soon.

Okay, here are a few quick facts about life: nothing last forever and the planets do not revolve around you. But let’s hope you already know these obvious truths. However, there are many other life lessons that you certainly need to know.

Bitter truths that set you free

The truth, no matter how bitter it is, will set you free. But they may hurt like hell at first. And I hate to speak so frankly, but the thing is, you need someone to show you the real picture and what it takes to get through this life successfully. Instead of thriving from the evaporating thrill of flattery, consider a few bitter truths to really build your character.

1. Talents can be wasted

If there is something inside of you that screams to be set free, then tap into that feeling. It may be that this is the voice of your unique talent. And if you don’t recognize what you’re good at, it can be wasted in life. It could be that you’re not sure about your talents or you’re scared of the nagging feeling, but if you don’t push yourself, you may go through life pursuing the wrong goals.

2. Money does not equal happiness

Yes, money pays the bills and solves many financial problems, duh. But, in the end, no matter how much money you have, you may still be unhappy with life. The truth is, happiness does not come from wealth. Happiness comes from within. And if you can’t grasp this, you’ll keep chasing money and remain unsatisfied.

3. You will die, and you don’t know when

This may be a little morbid, but it’s time we’ve come to terms with this. One of the most important bitter truths in life is death. We all will die someday, and the chilling part is that we don’t know when that will be. That is why it is so important to make the most of your time, rest when you need to, and stay healthy. You will want to enjoy life as much as possible.

4. Your loved ones will die, and you don’t know when

I know it’s pretty much the same truth, but it is a little different. We do not feel the same about our loved ones as we do ourselves. Yes, we want to live for as long as possible, but when it comes to our loved ones, we become protective of them.

I think one of the hardest truths is knowing that someone you love may die before you and you cannot stop this. You don’t know the time or the place this will happen, and if you are trying to protect them, you might not be successful. We must all come to terms with our mortality.

5. It’s impossible to make everyone happy

I tried this many times, and it just doesn’t work. There’s one person in particular that I’ve realized will not be happy with anything I do. And so, I don’t worry too much about it anymore. Yes, I love them, but it’s draining when I’m constantly trying to satisfy them. You may know someone like this, too. It’s okay, you cannot please everyone all the time, so relax and do what you can.

6. No one really cares

Sometimes bitter truths can sound insulting. However, it’s important that you understand even the harshest of realities.

If you think people care about your problems to the point that they would drop what they’re doing and run to help you, then you’re sadly mistaken. People mostly care when it’s convenient for them or their families. While there are exceptionally kind people out there, for the most part, individuals thrive to please themselves.

7. Time is your most valuable possession

Money is nothing compared to time. Time allows you to change yourself, make peace with those you love, and build a legacy for those to come. Never waste time and always find ways to utilize spaces in your life that would otherwise be squandered chasing frivolous things. If you are financially content, focus on your time instead.

8. Reactions are as important as actions

It’s always a good idea to take positive action, but what about your reactions? Did you know that the way you react to situations frames the mood for the rest of the day, sometimes for the remainder of the week? It’s true. So, I’m just going to say this:

“Stop reacting negatively to things you cannot control. It’s draining and serves no purpose.”

Plus, reacting positively can enact positive change. Acceptance is sometimes the healthiest reaction to life’s issues.

9. Change will always happen

There are many people who absolutely hate change, especially when things are going their way. Well, nothing is constant, and I think I mentioned that earlier. There will always be changes happening in your life. When it’s good, it will get worse. When it’s bad, it will become good again. This interchange is just part of life.

So, it’s important that you have a flexible mindset. This will ensure your psychological health.

10. Live for now!

Don’t live in the past, don’t stress about tomorrow, and just live in the present moment. And, of course, it’s good to plan ahead. But what’s not healthy is worrying about potential problems that could arise a week from now.

If you find yourself struggling to sleep with racing thoughts, remind yourself that sleep is what matters for now. It helps. Whatever you’re doing right now, do it to the best of your ability.

Bitter truths are bittersweet

While some of these statements are jarring, they will help you in the long run. Truths, while they can be hard to take sometimes, are important when navigating life and making the most of your time. And life can be sweet when you reap the fruits of following the truth.

View Comments

  • All true. We- all of us- are here only for a visit. Tend your own garden, have a quiet pipe, be as grand an instrument of God's Peace as you can.

    • We are all the same. As we learn truths about others, we learn truths about our self. But, these are potential truths, not set in stone. People will surprise you.

      Learning something new each day. Thanks Jule!

  • I disagree to more than half of these “truths”. Bitter or not bitter. Those who rely and healthily reciprocate with you, focus on you, your joys, your hurts, your denials….unless there is bonafide respect, relevance, that reliance does not ever learn the truth(s). Those who truly love you watch and learn by how you react. They rely on you because of trust built by them, within them, within you. The outgrowth is an outspoken confidence. An inward trust that cannot be articulated. Blest are they. Not just a facade, a game of “thrones”. True and honest guidance. No bitterness necessary. No resentment allowed. Thank you for this eye opening information, opened to honest debate.

    • Yes, there are those who truly care about you, your well-being, and your mental well-being. I can only speak from experience, honestly, and this experience has shown me many things about people. But I do not wish to lose hope in humanity. What I wish is for us to just be aware of our surroundings, more so the surrounding people. The truths I've encountered tell me that I shouldn't let what others do destroy me. I must be prepared for what usually happens, but hope for the best of people. Sometimes, people do show me their best. And sometimes, I don't. Thank you for reading and commenting. :)

    • Yes, it is. And due to the other comment I received, I would love to speak on the surprising aspect of people, and how they can be good despite our past experiences. I love this feedback because I learn so much about society that I am often at odds with.

      • Thank you, Sherrie. I just happened to see your reply and am sorry I did not notice it sooner.

        I am often at odds with society, too, but I want to make sure this does not ever change me. It can be grueling.

Published by
Sherrie Hurd, A.A.
Tags: life purpose