Random Average Person

A fun, honest post busting some common clichés.

Life advice is everywhere. It comes from books, social media, podcasts, and well-meaning friends. Some of it can be helpful, but a lot of it is overhyped or misleading. Here is a breakdown of the most overrated advice I have come across, along with why it may not be as useful as it sounds.

Follow Your Passion and the Money Will Come

This is one of the most common clichés. The idea is that if you do what you love, financial success will automatically follow.

• Passion alone rarely pays the bills.
• Skills, timing, persistence, and sometimes luck are equally important.
• It is better to combine your passion with practical planning.

Everything Happens for a Reason

This phrase is often used to comfort people during difficult times.

• Sometimes bad events are random or caused by circumstances beyond our control.
• Trying to find a reason can minimize real feelings of loss or frustration.
• Accepting uncertainty can be healthier than forcing a “meaning” onto everything.

Just Be Yourself

Simple advice, but it lacks guidance on context.

• People grow and change, and not every version of yourself works in every situation.
• Self-awareness and adaptability are just as important as authenticity.

Think Positive and You Will Succeed

Optimism is important, but it is not a substitute for action.

• Positive thinking alone cannot fix problems or ensure results.
• Planning, effort, and facing reality are necessary for success.

You Can Do Anything If You Try Hard Enough

Hard work matters, but limits exist.

• Resources, opportunities, and physical or mental constraints can prevent success.
• Knowing when to adapt or pivot is often smarter than endless effort.

Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

Patience is valuable, but waiting without action rarely leads to results.

• Taking initiative is usually more effective than passive waiting.
• Opportunities are often missed when we assume they will appear on their own.

Follow Your Gut

Intuition can be useful, but it is not infallible.

• Gut feelings are influenced by mood, stress, or hunger.
• Using facts, research, and external advice can improve decisions.

Everything Will Make Sense Eventually

Life is rarely perfectly logical.

• Some events will remain confusing or unresolved.
• Accepting ambiguity can be more practical than expecting full clarity.

Never Give Up

Persistence is a strength, but stubbornness can be counterproductive.

• Some goals are no longer feasible or worth pursuing.
• Strategic quitting or adapting can save time, money, and energy.

Happiness is a Choice

Happiness is influenced by circumstances, biology, and luck.

• Telling someone to “just be happy” oversimplifies complex emotions.
• Seeking support, self-care, and problem-solving can be more effective than forcing positivity.

Conclusion

Life advice can be helpful, but not all clichés apply to every situation. Take what resonates, leave what does not, and develop your own approach. Understanding limits, adapting to circumstances, and making conscious choices can be more reliable than following popular sayings.

Take a moment to reflect on the advice you follow. Which sayings really help you, and which are just clichés? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

Terms and Concepts

• Passion: A strong interest or enthusiasm for something.
• Pivot: To change direction or strategy in response to circumstances.
• Intuition: Understanding or knowing something without reasoning.
• Ambiguity: Uncertainty or lack of clarity in a situation.
• Stubbornness: Refusal to change or adapt despite advice or circumstances.