12 Things People Are Told They Will Grow Out Of, But Almost Never Do

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Growing up, many of us were told that as we got older, we’d naturally leave behind certain habits and quirks from our childhood. Parents, teachers, and well-meaning adults often assured us that time would work its magic, and we’d “grow out of” these behaviors. However, as life unfolds, it becomes evident that some things tend to stick around longer than expected.

1. Picky Eating

Many children are told they’ll grow out of their picky eating habits, but for most, it sticks around into adulthood. While taste preferences can evolve over time, individuals often maintain certain aversions or preferences that were present in their childhood. Some may develop a more adventurous palate, but many continue to avoid specific foods or textures throughout their lives.

2. Procrastination

Parents and teachers often reassure kids that they’ll outgrow their procrastination tendencies as they get older and become more responsible. However, procrastination often persists well into adulthood. Despite increased awareness of its negative consequences, many adults find themselves still struggling to manage their time effectively.

3. Messy Bedrooms

The messy bedroom of a teenager may seem like a rite of passage, with parents believing that their child will naturally become more organized as they mature. In reality, some people never quite shake off their inclination for a cluttered living space. While they might make some attempts to tidy up, their bedrooms often remain a chaotic realm.

4. Fear of the Dark

It’s a common belief that children who are afraid of the dark will eventually outgrow this fear as they become more rational and less imaginative. However, for many individuals, the fear of the dark lingers into adulthood. They may develop strategies to cope with it, such as nightlights or sleeping with the lights on, but the underlying fear remains.

5. Nail Biting

Nail biting is a common habit among children, and many parents reassure their kids that they’ll grow out of it. While some individuals do manage to kick the habit, many continue to bite their nails into adulthood. Despite their best efforts, this nervous habit can persist as a way to cope with stress or anxiety.

6. Bedtime Fears

Parents often comfort their children when they’re afraid of monsters under the bed or lurking in the closet, assuring them they’ll outgrow these nighttime fears. But for many individuals, these anxieties persist long into adulthood. The darkness still holds a certain unease, and the mind can conjure up all sorts of unsettling possibilities, making it challenging to sleep peacefully.

7. Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is a soothing habit commonly seen in toddlers, and parents hope their children will naturally grow out of it. However, some people continue to suck their thumbs well into their childhood and even adulthood. It can become a comforting ritual, especially during stressful moments or when seeking a sense of security.

8. Nail Biting

Nail biting, often perceived as a nervous habit in children, is believed by many parents to be something their kids will grow out of as they mature. But for numerous individuals, this habit persists into adulthood. Stress or anxiety can trigger this seemingly harmless action, and despite efforts to quit, they find it challenging to break the cycle.

9. Clumsiness

Children are often told they’ll become more coordinated as they grow older, but for some, clumsiness remains a constant companion throughout life. While they may become more aware of their lack of grace and take precautions to avoid accidents, their inherent clumsiness continues to manifest in awkward moments.

10. Fear of Public Speaking

Many people are encouraged to believe that their fear of public speaking will diminish with age and experience. However, for a significant number, this fear remains a daunting challenge. They may develop strategies to manage their anxiety, but stepping onto a stage or speaking in front of a group continues to evoke discomfort and nervousness.

11. Messy Eating Habits

Parents often tolerate messy eating in their children, expecting them to grow out of it as they become more skilled with utensils. Yet, for some individuals, messy eating habits persist into adulthood. Whether it’s spilling food on their clothes or leaving crumbs everywhere, their dining experience often remains a bit chaotic.

12. Overactive Imaginations

Childhood imaginations can run wild with vivid creativity, and adults sometimes assume this imaginative fervor will naturally wane with time. However, for many, their overactive imaginations persist well into adulthood. They continue to daydream, create elaborate scenarios in their minds, and find inspiration in the world of the fantastical.