What if everything you’ve chased after in life—money, success, possessions—turns out to mean nothing?
Imagine reaching the twilight years of your life, only to realize that the things you’ve worked tirelessly for have little meaning compared to the moments you took for granted.
This troubling revelation was shared by many seniors as they reflected on their biggest regrets. Surprisingly, their answers, captured through candid interviews, are strikingly similar and offer a blueprint for those of us still writing our life stories.
People who have lived long and meaningful lives often possess wisdom that can be of great benefit to younger generations. Yet in today’s fast-paced world, many overlook the value of their knowledge. The creator of TikTok, Yair Brachiyahu, decided to engage the older generations and explore their thoughts on life’s toughest questions. Among his most notable videos is one where he asks individuals about their biggest regrets. These clips, which have also gained traction on other social platforms, reveal a striking similarity in responses and resonate deeply with viewers.
A common theme of regret
The individuals featured in Yair’s videos range in age from 70 to 100 years old, and a recurring theme emerged from their reflections: the futility of greed and materialism. One man commented, “When you’re young, you tend to focus on making a lot of money and getting things like a big house or a fancy car. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that life is really about relationships, love, and understanding true abundance—knowing when you’ve had enough.”
A couple living on a boat had similar feelings. The woman said: “When we decided to live on a boat, we let go of almost everything we owned. We thought we would miss it or regret it, but nope. Her partner added: “Looking back, all the time we spent chasing bigger houses and fancy cars seems meaningless now.”
Many of those interviewed expressed regret for not prioritizing relationships, health, and meaningful experiences over wealth and possessions. For example, a 93-year-old man shared that his biggest regret was neglecting his friendships. “I go places and do things, but I don’t have anyone to share those experiences with,” he said. Another man admitted that his biggest regret was not spending more time at home when his children were growing up.
A different perspective
While most of the responses revolved around regret, one woman offered a more optimistic outlook. Instead of focusing on her regrets, she shared her philosophy of embracing positivity. “I don’t worry about tomorrow; I consider every day a gift,” she said. Her perspective serves as a reminder to cherish the present and maintain a positive mindset.
The pursuit of money and balance in life
@yairbrachiyahu 65 Year Old Shares What’s Most Important In Life #interview #lifelessons #lifeadvice #longervideos ♬ original sound – Yair
For many, the pursuit of wealth and material possessions has become the greatest source of regret. As time passes, moments of pure joy—like dipping your toes, reconnecting with friends over a meal, or hearing your children laugh—often overshadow the fleeting satisfaction of material gains. These simple, heartfelt experiences that cost little or nothing tend to bring more happiness than the latest gadget or trend.
However, saving for the future remains important. Smart planning and building a financial cushion ensures stability in emergency situations and reduces stress. The key is balance – enjoying occasional treats and luxuries while prioritizing memorable experiences with loved ones. Living a life of gratitude, without excessive stress, is the surest way to appreciate the time we have.
Another life lesson
In addition to asking about regrets, Yair asked other thought-provoking questions, such as what advice the elders would give to their younger selves. Answers ranged from “don’t take life so seriously” to “love yourself unconditionally.” When asked for their secret to aging gracefully, many credited a positive outlook, minimal stress, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance before retirement.
Through these candid conversations, Yair and his participants provide invaluable life lessons and perspectives, encouraging people to reevaluate their priorities. By sharing their wisdom, they want to help others avoid similar regrets and embrace a more fulfilled and meaningful life.
In conclusion, the wisdom shared by the elders in Yair Brachiyahua’s interviews serves as a profound reminder of what really matters in life.
Prioritizing relationships, health, and meaningful experiences over materialistic pursuits offers a deeper sense of fulfillment. While saving for the future is essential, it should never come at the expense of caring for the present and creating lasting memories with loved ones.
These honest reflections highlight the importance of living with balance and purpose, avoiding the stress of greed or unattainable perfection. By learning from those who have lived long and fulfilling lives, younger generations can gain valuable insights that will help them shape their lives without the guilt of misplaced priorities. This TikToker effort is not only a source of inspiration, but a challenge to reevaluate our own paths and ensure that we focus on what truly enriches our time on this earth.