How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?
– Satchel Paige
There is a special kind of person in our world who finds herself alone and isolated, almost since birth.
Her solitary existence isn’t from a preference or an antisocial temperament – she is simply old. Old in heart, old in mind, and old in soul, this person is an old soul who finds her outlook on life vastly different and more ripened than those around her.
As a result, the old soul lives her life internally, walking her own solitary path while the rest around her flock to follow another.
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Perhaps you’ve experienced this in your own life, or have witnessed it in another person? If so, this article is dedicated to you, in hopes that you will come to define yourself or understand another better.
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Table of contents
What is an Old Soul?
Quite simply, an Old Soul is a person who feels much older than their age reflects. This feeling is often accompanied by the gift of empathy, high intelligence, intuition, and keen insight into the human condition.
Old Souls are often outsiders looking in, they feel as though they don’t “belong” in this world, or this period of time. As a result, most Old Souls long for a sense of true meaning, purpose and inner fulfillment that money, power, and success can’t achieve. This longing is often described as the thirst to “return back home.”
There are two major types of Old Souls: those that are born with the sensation of being “different,” and those who “grow into” becoming Old Souls through the process of spiritual awakening. We’ll explore Old Souls and spiritual awakening more a little later.
17 Signs You’re An Old Soul
Robert Frost, Eckhart Tolle, Jim Carrey, Oprah Winfrey, and even Nick Jonas have been called Old Souls. Perhaps even you have?
If you have not yet discovered whether you’re an Old Soul, read some of the revealing signs below:
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1# You tend to be a lone wolf
Because Old Souls are disinterested in the pursuits and interests of the people in their age groups, they find it dissatisfying to make friends with people they find hard to relate to. This sense of alienation is one of the major problems Old Souls experience. The result is that Old Souls tend to find themselves alone a lot of the time. They struggle to connect deeply with others because most other people don’t have the same interests or values as them.
2# You love knowledge, wisdom, and truth
This might seem a little highbrow, but the Old Soul finds herself naturally gravitating towards the intellectual side of life. Old Souls inherently understand that knowledge is power, wisdom is happiness, and truth is freedom, so why not seek after those things? These pursuits are more meaningful to them than reading up on the latest gossip about the Kardashians or the latest football scores.
3# You’re spiritually inclined
Old Souls tend to have sensitive and spiritual natures. Experiencing a spiritual awakening, overcoming the confines of the ego, seeking spiritual enlightenment and self-realization, and fostering love and peace are often at the core of the Old Soul’s ultimate quest in life.
4# You understand the transience of life
Old Souls are frequently plagued with reminders of their own mortality and that of everything and everyone around them. In fact, it’s not uncommon for the old soul to have multiple existential crises throughout life, especially during difficult situations that highlight the impermanence of existence. Being very perceptive and sensitive toward the reality of death, old souls choose to live their lives differently. Every decision counts.
5# You’re thoughtful and introspective
Old Souls tend to think a lot … about everything. It’s crucial for an old soul to get enough space and time to reflect, introspect, and develop more self-awareness. This natural tendency toward rumination helps them to quickly learn from their actions and understand the people and environments around them. Many Old Souls practice a natural form of shadow work in which they are constantly reflecting on how they could do better, prevent their issues from getting bigger, and create more inner harmony.
6# You see the bigger picture
Old Souls dislike getting lost in the superficial details of gaining useless degrees, job promotions, social prestige, and better iPhones. Instead, Old Souls prefer to look at life from a birds-eye perspective, striving to find the wisest and most meaningful way of living and using their time. After all, life can end at any moment, so why waste time on trivial details?
7# You aren’t materialistic
Wealth, status, fame, and the latest tech gadget … Old Souls take little interest in these things. After all, what’s the point of seeking these socially paraded goals if they can easily be taken away? What’s the point if the fulfillment isn’t long-lasting or soul-enriching?
8# You were a strange, socially maladaptive kid
This is not always the case, but many Old Souls exhibit odd signs of maturity at young ages. Often, these children are labeled as being “precocious,” “introverted,” or “rebellious,” failing to fit into the mainstream behaviors. Usually, these children are extremely inquisitive and intelligent, seeing the purposelessness of many things their teachers, parents, and peers say and do, and either passively or aggressively resist them. If you can talk to your child like s/he’s an adult – you’ve probably got an Old Soul on your hands.
9# You’ve undergone an existential crisis
It’s common for Old Souls to ask deep and penetrating questions about life in their search for love, truth, and freedom. This quest to live a meaningful existence inevitably means that they will, sooner or later, experience an existential crisis. An existential crisis is what happens when a person starts to see through the lies and delusions within society. They may wonder what life is really about, whether they have a true purpose, and start to think about the human condition more. Is life just a product of chance? What’s the point of everything I’ve done? What is all this about, anyway? These are the types of questions Old Souls ask during the existential crisis.
10# You see life through a poetic/contemplative lens
Old Souls take time to enjoy life – they see things that others don’t see. Take nature for example: an Old Soul will enjoy the way the wind dances through the trees – while someone else may just walk straight by, disinterested or blind to the simple beauty before them. Old Souls also take time to contemplate life. The smile and laughter of a child is something to stop and savor. The striking beauty of a piece of art is something to ponder. The words of a great writer are something to meditate on (see Lectio Divina). There is so much in life to stop, appreciate, and reflect on.
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11# You tend to overthink everything
While Old Souls are contemplative types of people, this can also prove to be a painful and challenging quality. For instance, most Old Souls struggle with the curse of overthinking practically everything. Choosing from a menu at a cafe, for example, can be a strangely painstaking experience. (There are so many options! Which is the right one? What would taste the best? What is the most ethical? What is the best value for money? What is right for this time of the day? etc.) Social situations are no better, which leads to the next point …
12# You struggle with anxiety in social situations
Put the tendency to overthink everything alongside conscientiousness and strong empathy, and you have a recipe for social anxiety. Throw in a little bit of eccentricity (i.e., not sharing the same interests as most people) and we have an unavoidable tendency towards lingering social discomfort. Although many Old Souls are confident, calm, and self-possessed people, social situations are complex and tiring. There are so many elements to consider (fragile egos, etiquette, boundaries, reciprocity, unspoken but obvious insecurities, etc.) that they often prefer just being left by themselves. With that being said, when Old Souls do find someone they connect with or find interesting, they tend to form strong and intense connections quite quickly. It’s one of the greatest joys of life to find fellow kindred spirits.
13# You easily fall into the role of advisor or counselor
People flock to Old Souls for advice like a moth drawn to a flame. Attracted to their level-headedness and wisdom, it’s common for family members, friends, and workplaces to naturally position the Old Soul as advice-giver. While most Old Souls don’t mind this, it’s common for them to feel inundated and overwhelmed by the magnitude of other’s problems. Even so, Old Souls enjoy helping others. It’s more of a pleasure (than a burden) to give guidance to those in need.
14# You enjoy the company of those much older than you
Old Souls tend to make friends with older folks way more often than younger people (including those of the same age). There is something so down-to-earth, engaging, and layered about those who have been around much longer than the rest. Besides, it’s comforting being around those whose external energy matches the Old Soul’s internal energy. There’s something compatible there. No need to go running around like a headless chicken to parties, concerts, and what have you. Instead, Old Souls can enjoy sitting around a fire or lounging on the patio chairs, having a good old-fashion talk and exchanging stories.
15# You crave simplicity
In some areas of life, Old Souls respect and even like complexity. But overall, what most Old Souls crave deep down is simplicity. There is a certain purity, beauty, and Zen-like appeal in the simple life. Some Old Souls may find themselves drawn toward minimalism, while others may take a minimalistic attitude toward everyday responsibilities and other pursuits. The Old Soul’s thirst for simplicity is very much connected to their love of heart, soul, and essence. Whatever is true and worthy can easily be found in simplicity.
16# You’re attracted to all things vintage
While this might not be the case for all Old Souls, many find themselves drawn toward old music, old furniture, old architecture, old books, old clothing – really, anything old. Some Old Souls feel more at home in bygone eras (18th-century horse and carriage, 1920’s jazz, etc.), while others have an appreciation for even older cultures (e.g., shamanic and tribal periods).
17# You just “feel” old inside
Throw away the ‘Old Soul’ label for a moment and focus on how you feel inside. How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? Those who realize that they feel much older than their age reflects are often Old Souls at heart.
Common feelings that accompany being an Old Soul usually include a feeling of world wariness, mental tiredness, inquisitiveness, watchful patience, and the sensation of being an “outsider looking in.”
More In-Depth Help
Want to learn more about being an Old Soul? In my book Old Souls: The Sages and Mystics of Our World, I give more in-depth guidance:
Have You Experienced Spiritual Awakening as an Old Soul?
Almost every Old Soul, to some extent, has undergone a process of spiritual awakening.
Spiritual awakenings are periods in our lives when we feel lost, confused, and alienated from others and society’s rules, expectations, beliefs, and values.
The spiritual awakening process is a painful and often traumatic experience involving the complete disintegration of our former habits, perceptions, and even life goals. Often, the result of such an experience is fear, confusion, depression, anxiety, and social alienation for years on end. However, despite such devastation, the spiritual awakening process is ultimately a liberating experience after we have gone through the fires of rebirth.
You might be wondering what triggers the spiritual awakening process …
Well, usually the spiritual awakening process arises in a person’s life during major life events such as marriage, divorce, child-bearing, death, illness, and tragedy. However, spiritual awakenings can also be completely spontaneous, arising as a natural result of life experience – or in the Old Soul’s case, soulful maturity.
The inevitable product of going through a spiritual awakening process is soulfully maturing. The more we come to see through the illusions and deceptions of society, the more we direct our search for true happiness and fulfillment within ourselves. The deeper we search, the closer we connect with our Souls, which are the ultimate sources of our joy and peace.
Old Souls are people who are conscious of the Soul’s existence and actively work to reconnect with it again. In this sense, the term “Old Soul” is metaphorical rather than literal, indicating a matured and ripened relationship with the Soul or True Self. A Young Soul, on the other hand, is a person who hasn’t yet experienced a deep connection with their Souls, or Higher Selves. They remain like a young flower bud: tight and closed.
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However, it’s important to realize that not every Old Soul has a working connection with the Soul. After undergoing a process of spiritual awakening, it is common to become so absorbed in the suffering of the world and other personal issues, that a connection to the Soul is “lost.” While the Old Soul may be aware of a profoundly divine presence within them and existence, they are not able to sustain a connection with it. This experience is known as The Dark Night of the Soul.
Old Souls and Inner work
Instinctually, Old Souls know that life is one great spiritual journey towards inner Wholeness. As a result, most Old Souls spend their lives seeking that which will bring them true self-fulfillment or self-actualization.
The most vital practice to incorporate into your life as an Old Soul, and indeed as any person, is inner work.
Inner work is the practice of working to reconnect with your Soul – it is not limited to any particular religious or spiritual doctrine but embraces all paths.
Essentially, any practice which helps you to become conscious of the eternal and unchanging presence within you that is your Soul is helpful. We have dedicated this website to helping you explore various techniques and sacred inner work practices out there that aid soulful maturing. You can read more about Inner work here.
Illuminated Souls
Once an Old Soul has learned how to reconnect with and embody the Soul, they enter a new level of spiritual advancement. We refer to this level as the Illuminated Soul stage.
Illuminated Souls are awakened beings who have been freed from the dualistic mind that is at the root of all suffering (read more about the mind and ego for more understanding). Common Illuminated Souls that we know of include figures such as the Buddha, Basho, Krishnamurti, Meher Baba, Mahavira, Gangaji, Eckhart Tolle, Mooji, Unmani, and many others.
You can read more about Illuminated Souls in my Old Souls book.
Old Soul FAQ
Here are some common questions people ask about Old Souls:
There are many approaches to discovering the age of your soul – it all depends on your personal beliefs and preferences. One way to discover the age of your soul is through a deep guided visualization where you seek out your core essence. You could use imagery such as ascending to the heavens, descending into a deep tunnel and finding ‘the light,’ or moving through a labyrinth toward the center where your Soul resides. Other methods include mirror work, soul gazing (with another person), dream work, meditation, and using plant medicines. However, the question must be asked, why do you want to discover your soul’s age? How will it ultimately help you? And how can you know for sure that you’ve found the right answer? These are important questions to explore as they will help you to use your time and energy wisely.
Old Souls are relatively rare and compose a small percentage of the world’s population. Some speculate that Old Souls compose around 10% of the world’s population. However, this number is not exact or proven. Regardless of that fact, Old Souls are not common in today’s society.
An Old Soul is a person who feels much older than their age reflects. This feeling is often accompanied by the gift of empathy, high intelligence, intuition, and keen insight into the human condition.
Pay attention to the following signs:
1. You have a preference for solitude
2. You’re sensitive and empathic
3. You have a profound understanding of human nature
4. You have the ability to deeply introspect
5. You tend to experience a lot of psychological tiredness
6. You’re disinterested in worldly achievements or status
7. You have an inclination towards spirituality
8. You have a mystical approach to life
9. You thirst for truth and wisdom
***
What makes one person wise beyond their years, and another, young at heart?
What makes one person awaken to the desire for spiritual fulfillment and self-love, and another person to the desire to content themselves with material gain and social status? The answer is the age (or level of development) of their Soul.
If you’re an Old Soul, you will likely feel alienated in society, but you’ll also be able to live a truly unique and meaningful life. There are blessings and curses that accompany this way of being, but most of all, I hope you know that you’re not alone and there are others like you.
Are you an old soul? I’d love to hear your stories below.
We also have an Old Soul Test which you might wish to take.
Whenever you feel the call, there are 3 ways I can help you:
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3. Spiritual Awakening Bundle: Looking for a collection of all our essential transformative resources? You get five enlightening ebooks, seven in-depth journals, plus two empowering bonuses to help you soul search, heal, and awaken.
Hey guys. So I’m 15, about to be 16. I’m going to share my story, because I don’t tell anybody anything really. And I’d like to let it out. Well, I do, in fact, believe that I’m an old soul. Ever since I was little, my parents always told me I’m an old soul, and that I have a very special gift in life even if I don’t understand it yet. I’ve always preferred to hang out with the adults, I’ve felt closer, and more like I could talk about anything and everything with adults, like my aunts, uncles, etc. Much rather than cousins my age, or anything like that. Friends at school, I don’t have many, but I like telling them my problems. Problems like, relationship issues, family issues, etc. Because I feel like thats the only thing I can talk about to others my age. But there’s so much more that I think about that actually matter. I think too much. Which makes me quiet. Everybody, my whole life tells me i’m quiet. But I think about things like, understanding humans. Whether what makes them them is their by their zodiac sign, if they can help acting a certain way, I think about the universe, I think about a lot. This is personal, but I’ve even considered suicide. Not because my life is horrible, even though I may be a little depressed. It’s more like, a feeling of I’d rather be home. Because life down here sucks. And when I’m high, I’m not crazy or outgoing like most people my age. I’m laid back, I don’t talk, I just think. About my soul, the universe, stuff like that. When I look at myself in the mirror when I’m high, it’s like I’m outside my body looking down on myself sometimes. Because I don’t feel like I look like I really do. Not saying I’m ugly, or anything. I just feel like I’m somebody else than who I really am. That beings, I like it when people tell me about myself. Like myself on the outside, how I act, or present myself. But if somebody tells me something about myself on the inside, like personally, an in how I really feel about things, how I really think, etc. My response is, “No it’s not. You don’t know me. Nobody knows the real me.” Just because I don’t let it out, I keep the real me inside. I’ve tried so hard not to, but I just can’t seem to let it out. I’ve been hiding it my whole life and acting like something different than who I really am, a part of me is just convinced I have to act like this. Every time I do act like the real me, or try to let it out, I get in trouble. It’s just really kinda hard. Because people think I’m so innocent, and sweet, etc. But inside I know I have a really dark side, I’m no wheres near as polite, and innocent as everybody thinks. I’m in love with the thrill danger gives me. I just like to keep that side tamed. I have it so under control. It’s ridiculous. Because I’m at the age where you’re still trying to find yourself. It’s hard. Especially with thinking what I do, and not fitting in with people my age because I think that they are so immature. I think very spiritually about things. I don’t go to church everyday, I don’t pray everyday. I think spiritually about other stuff. Not praising god, even though I do believe in a higher power. It’s just beliefs of mine that I have. And I can easily tell when people have old souls or not.
Hey guys. So I’m 15, about to be 16. I’m going to share my story, because I don’t tell anybody anything really. And I’d like to let it out. Well, I do, in fact, believe that I’m an old soul. Ever since I was little, my parents always told me I’m an old soul, and that I have a very special gift in life even if I don’t understand it yet. I’ve always preferred to hang out with the adults, I’ve felt closer, and more like I could talk about anything and everything with adults, like my aunts, uncles, etc. Much rather than cousins my age, or anything like that. Friends at school, I don’t have many, but I like telling them my problems. Problems like, relationship issues, family issues, etc. Because I feel like thats the only thing I can talk about to others my age. But there’s so much more that I think about that actually matter. I think too much. Which makes me quiet. Everybody, my whole life tells me i’m quiet. But I think about things like, understanding humans. Whether what makes them them is their by their zodiac sign, if they can help acting a certain way, I think about the universe, I think about a lot. This is personal, but I’ve even considered suicide. Not because my life is horrible, even though I may be a little depressed. It’s more like, a feeling of I’d rather be home. Because life down here sucks. And when I’m high, I’m not crazy or outgoing like most people my age. I’m laid back, I don’t talk, I just think. About my soul, the universe, stuff like that. When I look at myself in the mirror when I’m high, it’s like I’m outside my body looking down on myself sometimes. Because I don’t feel like I look like I really do. Not saying I’m ugly, or anything. I just feel like I’m somebody else than who I really am. That beings, I like it when people tell me about myself. Like myself on the outside, how I act, or present myself. But if somebody tells me something about myself on the inside, like personally, an in how I really feel about things, how I really think, etc. My response is, “No it’s not. You don’t know me. Nobody knows the real me.” Just because I don’t let it out, I keep the real me inside. I’ve tried so hard not to, but I just can’t seem to let it out. I’ve been hiding it my whole life and acting like something different than who I really am, a part of me is just convinced I have to act like this. Every time I do act like the real me, or try to let it out, I get in trouble. It’s just really kinda hard. Because people think I’m so innocent, and sweet, etc. But inside I know I have a really dark side, I’m no wheres near as polite, and innocent as everybody thinks. I’m in love with the thrill danger gives me. I just like to keep that side tamed. I have it so under control. It’s ridiculous. Because I’m at the age where you’re still trying to find yourself. It’s hard. Especially with thinking what I do, and not fitting in with people my age because I think that they are so immature. I think very spiritually about things. I don’t go to church everyday, I don’t pray everyday. I think spiritually about other stuff. Not praising god, even though I do believe in a higher power. It’s just beliefs of mine that I have. And I can easily tell when people have old souls or not.
Thank you for sharing Chelsey.
You make an interesting comment about having a dark side. This is nothing to be ashamed of, as we all have a light and dark side within us, just as there is day time and nigh time. This is the essence of yin and yang philosophy: balance is creating through opposites. And so to become a whole and balanced person we must embrace our dark sides, not smother or repress them. Sol wrote an interesting article about how to express your shadow self: https://lonerwolf.com/encounter-shadow-self/ and https://lonerwolf.com/shadow-self/
15 is a hard age, and through time you will discover your calling in life, and people who you can relate to. It can feel isolating to be internally older than what you externally appear to be, but have you ever considered that other people you talk to do the same? Hide their deeper sides away from daylight, just like you? It is possible, and we tend to make many assumptions about people (I’ve been surprised a few times, as some people are very good actors).
Thank you for reading!
Without reading all comments, I’m sure I can relate to most… We all have a level on consciousness, some like me wish that we all could be at the highest level of consciousness. I am 18 years old and reading the “9 signs you’re an old soul” helps me to remember that I am not alone within the endless amount of souls that exist on Mother Earth.
I don’t mean to “advertise” but if you trully understand the purpose of life, I encourage all to search this beloved soul named Dr. and Master Zhi Gang Sha. When you learn his teachings, much clarity will come to you. You’ll never feel alone and will feel at peace with everyone and everything.
But the wishing part is what creates frustration and disappointment, isn’t it? I believe everything is as it’s supposed to be, but I can definitely relate to those wishful feelings.
Thank you for the recommendation, I will look up your suggestion.
Luna
Yes indeed it does. To my understanding frustration and disappointment is another form of testing… right?
Yes I also believe that everything is as its supposed to be… for the balance right? We need that balance like a Yin Yang balanced world. The question is just how we are to have it “balanced.”
…just a thought…
Thank you for looking up this Master :)
It gets tiring being so many a time around.
Most old souls can empathize with you there!
I’m sixteen years old with an old soul, and it can be frustrating at times. I have always felt like I had no age in an infinite sort I way, so when people try to tell me that I’m “too young” to do this or that, it gets under my skin. I want to travel, experience other cultures and places, live, learn, and expand my understanding of the universe. That’s when the realization of my limitations set in; I’m not perceived or treated the way I feel. I’m not trying to sound like a punk when I say that, but more like I don’t have the same mentality and attitudes as my peers. I know I don’t know every thing- and I’m glad I don’t- because how boring would life be if there was nothing left to learn.
I understand Lindsey, I’ve been there before. Patience is what you’ll have to develop, unless you decide to become a gypsy at a young age and leave your family (which is probably not recommended, as it creates a lot of worry and strife).
Many old souls in young bodies experience what you are going through (including myself) – of not being treated the way we feel. But do we really need their validation?
I’m 15 and I cannot stand my age group right now. I never realized how different I was from my peers until high school. Physically I seem the same, but mentally I’m at such a different place. I cannot bring myself to care about the petty things everyone seems to care about from the relevancy of how many followers you have on twitter, to what I got on my geometry test, to what dress I’m wearing to this weekend’s sweet 16. The things we (us teenagers) worry and stress about are so unimportant in the long term. I don’t know if it’s more frustrating that nobody else seems to realize that, or that I do. Sometimes I wish I could just maintain a normal thought process of someone my age for five seconds, but I don’t and that’s okay because that’s what makes me, me. It’s just so frustrating that I feel like I don’t fit here. I want to go somewhere where I’m actually being productive, being helpful, doing something that matters, something important. I’d rather being doing something that makes me feel fulfilled, then that makes me feel like I’m wasting my life away being unsatisfied in school. It’s not getting an education that makes me angry, it’s the absorbing of so many unnecessary things. All anyone my age cares about is getting drunk and hooking up with each other and I’m so over it. I just want to give and love. I don’t know why this sudden realization that I’m not really on the same page as everyone else is such a surprise to me… I’ve literally been giving my mom advice since I was three years old. So many of the things stated above are spot-on to my life. I’ve always been different on some level and as bitter sweet as it is, I really have hope good things will eventually (hopefully sooner than later) come.
School is very overrated, and mostly, pointless. What can I remember from school that actually benefited my life in the long term? Not much at all. Maybe a bit of math here, and bit of spelling there, but that’s about it. We actually have an article on Education, and what famous (and very intelligent/wise) people say about schooling: https://lonerwolf.com/education-quotes/ Just if you’re interested.
So my advice: don’t take school or grades too seriously. They are not the be all and end all, and even though it’s nice to please our parents, it’s even better to remember not to stress or fret.
You seem to have your head very well set on your shoulders for someone being so young, and that will benefit you in the long run. There are many ways to give love, if that is what you desire to do. You can express love in small ways to your family members, friends, strangers even, animals, nature, even to yourself. It’s not necessary to wait until the future until everything is perfect either, because nothing ever will be perfect. The time to start is now.
I appreciate your comment, thank you!
I’ve always been described as an ‘old soul’ from the time I was a young child. I never ‘got’ other children and always found them immature and boring. I was the kid sitting with the adults at gatherings and holding my own, and was generally welcome in conversations with them. I was introverted and introspective. I preferred reading by myself to ‘playing’ or participating in sports or social activities with my peers. I always found history fascinating and interesting. I listened to my elders experiences and adventures and reveled in their stories. I was always wise beyond my years, and people, even adults, sought my advice. It’s been a blessing and a curse, as my peers (and some adults) were suspicious and even hostile towards me at times. Even now as an adult, my friends, colleagues and family members
seek me out for comfort and counsel. I never thought that I was better than other people, I just felt an uncanny understanding of the human condition and the world around me.
Everything in life comes with its pros and cons, doesn’t it Ralph? It can be difficult being that person who acts as the emotional dumping ground, but then again, life is so much easier when you know when to avoid unnecessary paths of suffering and attachment (rather than having to go through them all over again – not that life can ever be without suffering).
Thank you for sharing :)
I must be an immature very young soul, because on my narrow understanding, and after just reading your post, .I don’t like you already… It looks ,from my short sight. perspective , and having read several posts here,that being an “old soul” means being in a dark,cold,solitary ivory tower., thanks, no thanks.!! I enjoy people around me ,and friendship is something to. Cultivate.,, we don’t. Have to get everything. Our way.,,every person has positive unique things that make us special..but we have to be willing to look behind the masks
Everybody here sounds the same…if im a loner and its hard for m. To socialize.its because. Im waay far ahead of the rest, and there’s. Nothing worth.my attention..and anyways,..they wouldn’t understand my genius…..GTFOH
El Neto ….you nailed it in your first 13 words. It’s crap like this and people like you that make it such a blessing/curse as Ralph Storrier mentioned in his post. Good luck to you, I hope you find yourself one day.-Freddy
I am 19 as well. I still feel like I am 13, however. Which sounds odd, but to another old soul I’m sure you know what I am talking about. I discovered a while ago that I was an old soul just because I have always been very self aware and information seeking. But I am so happy to find this website…because I am going through a time in life where I dropped out of college, am now surrounded by people already settled into their paths, yet realize that I am still trying to pave mine. It’s just very awkward because I can only relate to people that have already gone through what I am going through (and are at different points now), yet can’t relate to people that are going what I am going through. If that makes sense. In other words, I am 40 years on the inside as far as emotional and intellectual depth, but my physical and chronological reality is 19 year old that is a college drop out, serving tables, and trying to pursue what she is good at: music. Which is incredibly whimsical at this point because the music industry is so corrupt…but unfortunately, that is my talent, my “gift,” so you will. And while I struggle to find a place and purpose in this world of…only human constructs, I am mainly just resistant and want to give up because I know that all I truly need to be happy is nature, wholesome homegrown food, loved ones, and my guitar. Anyways, I just appreciate that you guys have formed a community for people that kind of see the world a little differently. It’s…comforting. And makes me personally feel less crazy. Thank you.
I think I understand Kspice: you relate better to people who are already grounded in life, rather than those people who are still paving their way. It’s a strange time to live in for Old Souls: there is such emphasis on quickly finding your path early in life, of settling into one career quickly, getting a family all-too-soon. The rush is so unnecessary, but it is needed by society to fuel the way things are, the fast-paced, mechanic construction of everything. I’m at a point in my life where I am currently unemployed, no wonderful or impressive degrees or qualifications. Nothing of the sort. So by society’s standards I am failing. By my own standards however, I am succeeding doing what I love: writing (even if it isn’t making me a big income). Sometimes we just need to learn how to block these noisy nuisances out from our worlds.
Thank you for being here and sharing your story.
I just turned 19, and still I feel as if nobody can relate to me. One of my biggest flaws is that I study the people around me, and try to imitate them, adapt part of them onto myself. And sometimes I will say what I believe them to be thinking, to the person before he /she has a chance to say it, or if they don’t want to say it , I will for them , just to see if I’m right. And I almost always am. Unfortunately the person will end up thinking that we are alike, that we think the same. I end up backing out of relationships, and losing friends, because in my opinion, there isn’t really a real me. But were they ever my friends if I was just acting? Or is that the closest I’m actually going to get to a real friend, or just a healthy relationship I guess
19 is a difficult age – it was for me, and for many others. These years are when we are still shaping our identities, and our senses of self. I’ve learnt that pretending to be something other than what you are is not worth it. It never is. All it creates is stress and disappointment. My recommendation: don’t do it. It’s very difficult to always be your authentic self, but I’ve learnt just to be quiet in the presence of others. Amiable, but distant. Eventually, with enough persistence, you will find others like yourself. You already have in a way. Try sites like meetup.com. Find a topic you are interested in (e.g. spirituality, metaphysics etc.) and search for groups in your area. This was one way I managed to meet people similar to me. Sometimes you just need to get creative.
I went on meetup,with older people,Im 22 and so glad I came upon this article,someone also told me I was an empath,which I looked into and fit almost all of descriptions!!
Research Magic Mushrooms. I had a similar problem and they helped. I was too depressed to have feelings which caused me to have to imitate normal people.
Just please be very, very careful!
Psilocybin won’t kill you, 5 grams will be profound and you’ll be fine.
Set and setting, it’s important to not go into mind expanding experiences all willy nilly
This also helped me… It gives me the ability to describe emotions and relations much more efficient than I usually do.
Yes, Psilocybin has been proven to help a lot with anxiety and depression, plus, it is not addictive. Many shamanic cultures used mushrooms for self-exploration, but unfortunately our society condemns anything with psychoactive abilities.
Well i do exactly what you u do Btw am …. huh 16…. its really hard….its hard being and old souls… am still trying to figure out who i am……idk what to do anymore l….
Maybe it is worth you trying out meditation, more reliable than any substance. :)
Sensory deprivation tanks work way faster.
Everyone mimics their environment, it’s part of being humans. This is why solitary confinement is cruel and unusual punishment, we require something to mimic in order to stay “sane”.
I’d be curious to hear what you mean when you say “there isn’t really a real me” thereisnoescape.
So I know exactly what he means. It’s more like your focused on just being the type of person they want to be around instead of yourself. But it just kinda happens it’s not like I have to try.
Quite true, but not like I am hiding behind mask. It’s more like i can’t find real ME.. Like real me is made out of million of voices.. i can’t identify myself with neither, but i “know” i’m all of them.
Except my point of view, my perspective, my experience, it shifts but it’s in basis same.(In some way)
Thereisnoescape, you took the words right out of my mouth! I am also 19, and I do the same exact things and feel the same ways that you listed! Never before in my life did I consider the idea that maybe there is another person with a similar thought process towards social interactions/relationship building. I too feel lost, but reading your comment has given me much solace, thank you!
That is not a flaw at all. Actually its a huge advantage. Being able to study and read people is great. I’m the same way, you just have to learn to tame the thoughts and keep them to yourself. You are special, don’t let society make you think otherwise. Try meditation and exercise, its helped me tremendously
I felt the same way you did for many years, Thereisnoescape.
I stopped doing that because it was just hurting everyone around me and for that me, too.
Now I’m an aloner, waiting for someone crossing my road that truely gets me.
Man I just turned 19 too and I can relate to you on everything you just said. I say things that I think there thinking and in the end it’s hard for someone to get to know ME like the real me.
I know what you mean, it’s like you’re wearing a mask constantly, showing people whatever it is you think they want to see in you so that you seem at the very least relatable or likeable, but when you are completely alone talking to yourself out loud or in the mirror, isolated from the outside world, that is your real self, that’s the part of you no one will ever understand but you and for the most part no one will ever get to see.
As for your friends I have dumbed it down to using people to benefit me whether it be something physical like goods or services or something as simple as just spending an hour or so of my time with me when I feel I need to socialize, I don’t have friends I just have people that benefit me in different ways and I can walk away from them at any point and not feel anything.
Wow! Someone who is able to put into words the way I have felt my whole life. Also how I too use ppl simply because it gets old sometimes always feeling alone. I have been misunderstood my entire life!
you just described how i feel so clearly. Wow!
I believe this post to be true and accurate as it describes many things that I have come to conclude. Below is a portion of my story, I’ve known my whole life something was different and now I know why.
I’m 33 now and have always wondered why I had trouble fitting in, and the answer is written on this web article “I AM AN OLD SOUL”. As a youngster I never listened to the teachers as I found them incredibly boring and I often acted out when I knew I was being wronged. Violence, greed and deceit was something I never appreciated. I was always a
loner in my school years, people my age just never understood me at all. I guess I was the only old soul in my area growing up and you can imagine how stressful that was for me.
The teachers and psychiatrists said I had behavioral problems, but I knew there was something about myself that was different from everyone else around me.
It is a shame that articles like this weren’t available for them at that time. Daydreaming was often my thing in school, I would just wander off and leave the nonsense of boring regimented learning and structure and go create something magical and wondrous for myself.
I’ve been called Indigo or special before and while those labels did seem to describe me in certain area’s… the old soul was more what I felt. That was my conclusion, I often had wisdom beyond my years, I could grasp concepts that seemed beyond my comprehension or understanding and I showed intelligence that someone my age shouldn’t have had. As I have
grown up the 9 signs this article has laid out I have become and always have been really.
I started to reconnect with my true self at about the age of 27, before that I suffered badly with depression. But as time as gone on more and more I feel that I am truly finding out who I really am. I can’t help but think I am due to play a a major role in something (but that could just be my ego talking their). Its a shame that many souls around me aren’t quite up to speed with all this, but I guess these are lessons that must be learned in order to progress.
I do have one question, what exactly is the purpose of me being here now? I do feel that I no longer wish to stay on earth, but rather go home to the source. I feel like I have been here
to long and am quite honestly getting fed up with it.
I would like to add that I have had alien abduction experiences I believe both physical and inter-dimensional, though more inter-dimensional it seems. So I have to wonder is this a form of brain control, pre-conditiong or tampering. I have to consider that possibility. Please reply I WOULD BE HAPPY TO DISCUSS THIS WITH ANYONE FURTHER.
There is immense power in the ability you describe, embrace it – THAT is who you are. You are a student of humanity, learn to find joy in it and play the game. Stay modest while you do so and you will see that there are many others like you. Look, they are even writing articles about us.
Praying to God really helps.
Amen. ….Yes it does. Jehovah God Almighty and Jesus Christ can help us with any problem we may have. All we have to do is come to him.
Yes. It’s true! As the Gospel of Matthew says “but only say the word and my soul will be healed.”
It’s the closest I can expect them to get to quantum physics that long ago. I’m just a poor farmer/ truck driver who is lucky to be educated and healthy. I don’t go in for the trappings of spiritual living, but my mission is to promote healing, walk the medicine path just like a mere mortal can.
In my personal experience, most “old souls” tend to be atheists as they are usually “spiritually stable”. Which to me just means that you are well in mind and body. We often find ourselves using logical, substantial reasoning in order to answer our problems. Rarely will I find an “old soul” with this religious dependency to pray to an individual whom has never been seen by the eyes of any living individual. Many of you will make the claim, “Jesus is in all of us.”. A claim that sounds great; however, it is not a god that allows you anything outside your own personal capability. You are the individual who leads your own life in the way you deem fitting. You may act and perform in any way you wish. You will not be condemned by a greater power, only by yourself and those around you. I understand the purpose of religion and I understand that there are those who require someone or something to guide them, but religion is not the all encompassing, one true answer to guidance and understanding. It is simply something that has become so popularized and renowned that it is the easiest thing to turn to for people seeking direction. If any are wondering, I’m an 18 year old who considers himself to be an, “old soul”.
reincarnation is proof of something greater than yourself. how absurd you are. You ARE NOT the smartest person alive and SOMEONE designed this…
Im exactly like the article said, so im an “old soul” according to it. You cant say there is no god, because you dont have any proof of God existing or not. I dont like any religion and am not in one, but that doesnt mean I dont believe in God. Im now searching for the REAL truth about life but i can tell you wont find it outside (been looking forever and everyone has their own beliefs and nothing else). This statement you made: “You may act and perform in any way you wish” , is supremely irresponsible, and thats why 99% of the people is degrading in every aspect of life, at a speed that the society as we know it, will end in a near future. So its the time for us the old souls to do something, search what our mission is. If someone is in a higher level of knowledge and finds out, please share, thanks!
Agree. Your words are eloquent but above the understanding of many. Unfortunately even old souls get stuck in the spiritual child mindset. They need a daddy or a mommy to tell them right and wrong. They haven’t yet let go of the cultural brain washing that thousands of generations are a captive of. Its not their fault, just human nature and human progress.
Not so. I believe in a loving Creator. We are free to write our own lives.
I believe in being a plain dealer who can accept different people without categorizing who has more value. Calling myself an old soul feels a bit like all those right wingers who call themselves Christian. I let others make up their own mind about what I am.
I agree, this just seems like another excuse to give oneself a title to feel ‘important’. A person living an authentic life has no need for such reassurance.
Old maybe, but definitely wrong on this! Maybe you just forgot. Jesus is not in all of us but can be. You make that call, he just gives tou the opportunity to do so. BTW, he told me that! Religion was created by man, G-d was not my friend! G-d created All. Faith is about knowing, believing in something that isn’t tangible on this earthly plain yet still knowing that it (HE) EXISTS. START READING THE OLD TESTAMENT IF SO INCLINED AND ASK FOR UNDERSTANDING, FOR WISDOM AND DO IT WITH AN OPEN AND HUMBLE HEART AND I GUARANTEE YOU’LL END UP BEING AMAZED AT WHAT YOU’LL LEARN AND CONTINUE TO NEVER STOP THAT LEARNING.
One more thing, you lead the life you want and how you see fit because of something called FREE WILL. YOU CONTROL EVERYTHING AS WELL AS THE OUTCOMES FROM THE CHOICES YOU’VE MADE, WHETHER THEY ARE GOOD OR BAD FOR YOU. THIS HAPPENS SO YOU CAN LEARN.
If you are still around, I would love to compare notes with you. I have always felt the same way and I am now 63.
Hello Luna, thank you for your wonderful article. I can completely relate to your premises. All of my life I have always had a great intuition and predictability about people before I would come in contact with them. Like I already knew them without really knowing them and how they would act towards me. Sometimes sheer judgement can just get in the way but usually I am quite right. As well, I have always felt too mature for people my age and would click a lot better with older people. Or sometimes it would seem that older people would gravitate towards me too for some reason. My mother would certainly approach me about this on why I wouldn’t socialize with people my age at parties and such but I would lie and say that I was just shy but the truth is I couldn’t really get sucked into their topics wholeheartedly. Now in many cases I have had a few good friends my age that I could click with but not too often. It makes me quite depressed sometimes because I feel like people don’t get me and sometimes I don’t get people my age and that kind of makes me come off as I’m a know it all or awkward personality. I wish I could give them the simple excuse that I am an old soul but they would probably be confused.
That’s definitely one of the biggest problems I’ve come across: coming across as being too know-it-all, too snobby, or too weird. But it only becomes a problem when you make it a problem. We can mold our thoughts, and change our mindsets. I’m still working on caring too much about the way people perceive me, and it’s hard work! But I’ve seen that wanting to be liked and accepted creates the most problems in my life, and many people’s lives. So I keep going … keep experimenting. It’s sort of like being a Scientist, or a voyager into new worlds, shaping the way my mind works. That’s the beauty of self-improvement … the struggle is worth the gain, always. Thank you once again for sharing here Abi!