Do not worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older it will

When Joey Adams wittily stated, “Do not worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older it will avoid you,” he captured the irony of human existence — that the very things which once seemed so alluring and irresistible often lose their hold over us with the passage of time. Adams’ words reflect a universal truth about the human experience: as we grow, we become less susceptible to the temptations that once defined our youth, and in their place, we develop wisdom and resilience. This humorous observation also speaks to the impermanence of desires, reminding us that what we seek in our youth may not be the same as what we value in later years. The struggles that once seemed so pressing lose their power as we mature and come to realize that true fulfillment lies not in the fleeting temptations of life, but in deep, meaningful pursuits.

In the ancient world, wisdom was often associated with maturity and self-discipline. The Stoic philosophers, such as Epictetus and Seneca, wrote about the importance of mastering one's desires and learning to rise above temptations. Epictetus often reminded his followers that true freedom comes not from indulgence, but from control over one's impulses. In his view, it is not the world that holds us captive, but our inability to control our internal desires. Joey Adams' quote, while humorous, reflects a similar truth: as we grow older, we naturally begin to gain mastery over our impulses, as the things we once chased with desperation fade into insignificance. In this way, maturity is not just about age, but about the gradual shift in what we deem important.

The origin of Adams’ quote lies in the natural progression of human life. As we age, our priorities often change. The temptations that once seemed irresistible — the pursuit of pleasure, wealth, or status — lose their appeal as we come to understand the deeper truths of life. What once seemed like the path to happiness now appears fleeting, and we begin to focus on more lasting pursuits — relationships, purpose, and peace. This shift is not necessarily driven by any conscious effort to avoid temptation, but rather by a natural evolution of our values and understanding. Over time, we see that what seemed so urgent in youth is no longer necessary for fulfillment.

A real-life example of this transformation can be found in the life of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. In his early years, Franklin was known for his playful nature, socializing, and pursuit of pleasure. However, as he aged, he became a devout believer in self-discipline and spent much of his later life focused on moral improvement and public service. Franklin’s personal transformation is an example of how, over time, we come to realize that the temporary pleasures we chase early in life often give way to a deeper understanding of what brings lasting peace and contentment. His life, marked by a shift from youthful indulgence to wisdom, mirrors Adams' idea that, as we age, temptations lose their grip on us.

The meaning of Adams’ quote is a reminder that temptation is not something we must constantly battle against; instead, we can trust that, with time, our desires will naturally evolve. As we grow older, we often develop a clearer understanding of what truly matters in life. The things that once consumed our attention fade into the background as we begin to focus on more enduring values. This shift is not something that requires constant struggle, but rather a natural maturation. Temptation, in this sense, is a passing phase — something that we grow beyond as we gain a deeper sense of purpose.

The lesson Adams offers is one of acceptance and patience. It encourages us to understand that our struggles with temptation are a part of our growth, but they are not permanent. Instead of fighting against our desires, we should allow ourselves the freedom to evolve and embrace the wisdom that comes with age. The things we once sought with fervor will lose their allure, and in their place, we will find deeper satisfaction in the things that truly matter. We must trust that wisdom comes not from struggling against our temptations, but from allowing ourselves to grow into a state where they no longer have the same power over us.

Practical actions to embrace the wisdom of maturity and avoid the grip of temptation:

1. Reflect on your values: Take time to consider what truly matters in your life. Are your desires aligned with these values, or are they distractions?

2. Embrace self-discipline: Recognize that over time, your ability to resist temptation will naturally grow. Focus on developing habits that support long-term goals rather than short-term pleasures.

3. Accept the natural progression of life: Understand that your desires will evolve as you grow older. What once seemed essential may no longer hold the same appeal.

4. Prioritize lasting fulfillment: Invest in relationships, purpose, and personal growth — the things that offer deep and lasting contentment.

For as Joey Adams so humorously reminds us, the struggles of youth give way to the clarity and wisdom of age. As we grow, we find that the things we once chased with fervor become less important, and the peace we seek comes not from indulgence, but from maturity and self-awareness. It is in this natural progression that we come to realize that temptation, like all things in life, is fleeting — and that true fulfillment lies in growing beyond it.