What being an ‘old soul’ really means

(Higher Perspective | Daniel Mitchell-Benoit) Have you ever been called an old soul? Or perhaps you’ve done the calling, seen something so wise in someone so young, and you simply had to tell them.

What being an ‘old soul’ really means

Being an old soul is a term that seems to resonate with a significant number of people, suggesting a depth of experience and wisdom that belies one’s physical age, but what does it really mean to be an old soul? How do they live and see things compared to their younger likes?

Feeling a disconnect from one’s true path in life can be severely damaging. It can lead to persistent discomfort, a nagging feeling that something’s not right, and an overall sense of being lost.

Unbeknownst to most, it’s actually extremely common to find your path later in life, so much so that one ancient society scheduled their life calendar around that.

Decades of wisdom

At its heart, being an old soul means possessing a profound sense of inner wisdom, empathy, and a distinct perspective on life that often feels out of step with their actual age. They feel as though they’ve lived several lifetimes, accumulating knowledge and experiences that guide them in their current life.

This deep-rooted sense of understanding the world and its complexities sets old souls apart from others, making them exceptional listeners and advisors. What does that really mean, though? How do old souls navigate the world differently?

The long haul

Old souls view life through a lens of maturity and insight that is rare for their age. They often find themselves drawn to the timeless over the transient, valuing enduring truths and wisdom over fleeting trends and superficialities.

This unique perspective can sometimes make them feel disconnected from their peers, especially if they’re in their teens or early 20s, leading to a sense of solitude or alienation. However, it also empowers them to make deeper, stronger friendships with those who do understand the way they think, see, and perceive the world.

Empathy overwhelm

One of the most striking characteristics of an old soul is its extraordinary capacity for empathy. They possess an innate ability to sense and understand the emotions of others before words are even spoken. This emotional depth allows them to connect with people on a profound level, offering healing moments of comfort and understanding.

However, this heightened sensitivity also means that old souls can easily become overwhelmed by the pain and suffering they perceive in the world, making it very important for them to find ways to protect and rejuvenate their energy.

Alone and together

Despite their ability to connect that deeply with others, many old souls are inherently introverted, preferring the peace of solitude over the chaos of company. It’s because this time spent alone is crucial for their well-being, allowing them to reflect, meditate, and recharge before facing the world again.

It’s during these moments of solitude that old souls often experience their most profound insights. The challenge lies in balancing this need for solitude with the human desire for connection and companionship, which old souls also crave on a rather intense level. Their hearts are in a constant state of yearning.

If your heart is calling out for a path you’ve yet to find, it’s never too late to seek it out.

Expression of artistry

Not only are old souls generally seen as creative, but that creativity serves as an important outlet, allowing them to express everything they feel in the deep well of their hearts. Whether through writing, music, sculpting, or other forms of creative expression, old souls often find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in sharing their unique perspective with the world through art.

This creative exploration not only serves as a form of personal therapy but also has the potential to inspire and enlighten others, bridging the gap between an old soul’s unique inner world and outward expression.

What drives them

For old souls, the pursuit of meaning and purpose is not just a philosophical exercise but a fundamental aspect of their existence. They are driven by a deep-seated desire to understand their place in the universe and to make a positive impact on the world, no matter how long it takes.

This quest often leads them on diverse and unconventional paths as they seek to align their actions with their core values. It’s a journey fraught with challenges but also rich with the potential for fulfillment, community aid, and enlightenment.

Pillar among their peers

In a world often dominated by materialism and superficial values, old souls stand out as agents of change. Their meaningful understanding of society and profound empathy position them as natural leaders, counselors, and guides, leading others toward a more thoughtful and compassionate way of living.

While their unconventional perspectives and values may not always be understood or appreciated, the influence of old souls is undeniable, as they inspire those around them to look beyond the surface and embrace a more meaningful, soulful approach to life.