Welcome listeners. Today's conversation circles around the phrase better late than never, a saying rooted in wisdom that transcends centuries. This expression, a direct translation of the Latin potiusque sero quam nunquam, emphasizes that it’s preferable to achieve something late than to never achieve it at all. Geoffrey Chaucer introduced it to English in The Canterbury Tales back in 1386, and its spirit has only grown more resonant over time.

Let’s talk about second chances and the often underrated power of perseverance. Society frequently glorifies early achievement, flooding timelines with stories of prodigies and youthful success. But history—ancient and modern—is filled with remarkable examples that remind us that late bloomers may just carry the most inspiring lessons.

Consider Julia Child. She didn’t start cooking seriously until her late 30s, and published her groundbreaking cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, at age 50. Her TV debut came just after, changing the way America viewed food and proving passion has no age limit. Vera Wang, once a figure skater and Vogue editor, designed her first wedding dress at 40. Today, her name defines luxury bridal fashion. Then there’s Ray Kroc, who was a 52-year-old milkshake machine salesman before transforming McDonald’s into a global empire. Laura Ingalls Wilder penned her first children’s classic at 65, and Toni Morrison published her first novel at 39, ultimately winning the Nobel Prize in Literature well into her 60s.

Each of these journeys was powered not by perfect timing, but by persistent, daily effort—demonstrating that fulfillment and impact can come from late, courageous starts. According to VegOut Magazine and Deseret News, such "late bloomers" compound decades of experience, turn setbacks into wisdom, and often draw strength from community support.

Yet, many listeners know the sting of feeling like the world has raced ahead. Societal pressure to hit fixed milestones can make detours feel like dead ends. Still, these stories show there’s always room for reinvention. It’s never too late for a dream, a pivot, or a comeback.

So if you’re feeling behind or questioning your value, remember: better late than never isn’t just an excuse for tardiness—it’s a call to action. Acknowledge your aspirations, no matter how long they’ve sat dormant. Take that step, embrace your journey, and know that every story has its own timeline. Your chance is now.

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Better late than never is more than a proverb—it’s a powerful reminder that second chances and perseverance truly matter. The phrase dates back to ancient times, translated from the Latin potiusque sero quam nunquam, and found its way into English through the works of Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century. Today, it encourages listeners to act, no matter how delayed, because action—whenever it comes—still brings value.

Society often idolizes youth as the only time for ambition or achievement, but countless stories prove otherwise. Take Carol Gardner, who launched a greeting card company at age 52 after a personal crisis. Within six months, her cards were in stores nationwide, and her business grew into a multimillion-dollar operation, as reported by the New York Times. Grandma Moses, one of the great American folk artists, only began painting in her late 70s, eventually producing over 1,500 works and gaining worldwide acclaim. Kathryn Bigelow made history by becoming the first woman to win the Oscar for Best Director at 58, and Henry Ford revolutionized the auto industry at 40 after many failed business attempts.

The journey of late bloomers isn’t a simple pivot—they build on a lifetime of experience, sometimes channeling years of struggle or obscurity into newfound purpose. Julia Child was nearly 50 when she became America’s favorite cooking teacher. Ray Kroc bought McDonald’s and built his fast-food empire at 52. Laura Ingalls Wilder published the first of her beloved “Little House” books at 65.

What holds most people back from pursuing their dreams later in life isn’t ability, but societal pressure—the idea that achievement has an expiration date. These stories shatter that myth. As one late-life entrepreneur put it, “I would rather have these little, tiny challenges that didn’t work than have a life of what if.”

To all listeners who feel they’ve missed their moment: life’s timeline is your own. Whether you’re starting small or charting a new course entirely, remember that success and fulfillment don’t come with a use-by date. Better late than never—your next chance might just be your greatest.

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The phrase better late than never speaks to the heart of perseverance and second chances. Its roots run deep, tracing back to a Latin proverb used by the Roman historian Livy, and it first appeared in English in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales over six centuries ago. The wisdom of this phrase is universal: taking action, no matter when, is always better than never trying at all. In today’s fast-paced, youth-fixated society, it's easy to feel like you’ve missed your window. But stories of remarkable late bloomers remind us that time isn’t our enemy—giving up is.

Consider Harland “Colonel” Sanders. He didn’t even start franchising his now world-famous fried chicken until his sixties. Most people would have considered slowing down at that age, but Sanders hit the road on a shoestring budget, sleeping in his car as he pitched his recipe restaurant by restaurant. His perseverance paid off; in his seventies, Kentucky Fried Chicken was a global sensation. Ray Kroc launched McDonald’s at 52 after decades of nondescript sales work, showing that even a small idea, acted on relentlessly, can change the world. Julia Child became a household name in her 50s, when she introduced French cooking to America, and Vera Wang’s first wedding dress design came at age 40 after an entirely different career path.

These aren’t exceptions; they highlight a powerful pattern. According to VegOut Magazine, late bloomers tend to draw upon years of accumulated experience, forming robust habits and networks that fuel their success. They rarely pivot out of nowhere—they compound, building on a foundation only time can provide. Community also plays a crucial role. Durable achievement is often a team sport, drawing strength from the right mentors and peers.

Societal pressure can make us believe that if we haven’t succeeded by a certain age, the chance is gone. But as stories like these prove, not only is success possible later in life, it’s often all the richer for the journey. For anyone listening who feels behind, remember: you set your own timeline. List your unique strengths. Take one step forward, however small. Do it today, do it tomorrow—just don’t let the myth of being “too late” hold you back. After all, better late than never.

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Better late than never isn’t just an old proverb—it’s a philosophy that reminds us all that a delayed dream is still worth chasing. The phrase, famously traced back to Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, and even earlier to the Latin “potiusque sero quam nunquam,” echoes across cultures as a call to let go of regret and embrace perseverance. In a world obsessed with youth, overnight success, and rigid milestones, stories of late bloomers show that the path to fulfillment rarely follows a straight line.

Society often pressures us to meet certain expectations by specific ages: careers by thirty, achievements by forty. This race against time can feel suffocating, and many listeners may think that missing those invisible deadlines means their chance has passed. But consider icons like Vera Wang, who became a celebrated fashion designer at forty, or Samuel L. Jackson, whose breakout acting role came at 46. Julia Child’s first major cookbook was published when she was fifty, and Frank McCourt won a Pulitzer for Angela’s Ashes at sixty-six. These stories are powerful because they reveal how lived experience, resilience, and authenticity can fuel a richer kind of success.

Recent news continues to celebrate late bloomers. Earlier this year, veteran actor Alan Rickman was highlighted for his remarkable impact, only rising to international fame in his forties, while an 86-year-old marathoner, Gladys Burrill, inspired thousands by finishing her first race well past retirement age. According to Deseret News, these individuals thrived because they leaned into their passions and refused to let age dictate their potential. The lesson for listeners: age may shape your journey, but it never limits your opportunity.

Second chances aren’t just possible—they’re often transformative. The power of perseverance lies in recognizing that each setback is a setup for a comeback. Listen to your own story, stay curious, keep honing your craft, and never let society’s clock drown out your voice. Wherever you are on your timeline, remember: better late than never, and your next chapter is still unwritten.

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Today, we're going to explore a timeless phrase that resonates deeply with many: "Better late than never." This idiom, tracing back to the Latin phrase "potiusque sero quam numquam," means it's preferable to do something late than not at all. It was first recorded in English by Geoffrey Chaucer in "The Canterbury Tales" around 1386.

The concept of "better late than never" is especially relevant in the context of second chances and perseverance. Many individuals have achieved success later in life, defying societal expectations and timelines. For instance, Vera Wang didn't become a fashion designer until she was 40, while Samuel L. Jackson got his breakthrough role at 46. These stories show that success isn't limited by age.

However, societal pressures often discourage people from pursuing their dreams later in life. The idea that there's a "right time" for everything can be limiting. Yet, as the stories of late bloomers demonstrate, it's never too late to start anew. Frank McCourt, for example, published his Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir "Angela's Ashes" at age 66.

To listeners who feel like they've missed their opportunity, remember that every step forward is a success. The power of perseverance and the importance of second chances should inspire us to keep moving forward. Whether it's changing careers, starting a new business, or simply pursuing a long-held passion, the idea that "better late than never" holds true can be both reassuring and motivating.

In a world where timelines are often rigidly defined, embracing the concept of "better late than never" can be liberating. It reminds us that success is a journey, not a race, and that every moment offers a chance to start anew. So, no matter where you are in your journey, remember that it's always better to act than to wait, and that every late start can lead to a great finish.

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Better late than never is much more than a polite excuse—it’s a testament to the enduring possibility of second chances and the rewards of perseverance. In today’s world, with trends and technology racing forward, it’s easy to worry time has run out on our goals. But history and countless lives prove otherwise. The phrase itself is ancient, first recorded in English by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales back in 1386, and even earlier as a Latin proverb. Its message urges us to value delayed action over permanent regret and has comforted and inspired generations.

Think about legendary late bloomers whose stories light up this idea. Colonel Harland Sanders began franchising Kentucky Fried Chicken at 62, after a lifetime of odd jobs and setbacks. Vera Wang pivoted from figure skating and magazine editing to becoming one of the world’s foremost fashion designers—she didn’t make her first wedding dress until she was 40. Samuel L. Jackson, a name now synonymous with Hollywood cool, didn’t land his breakout film role until he was 46. Gladys Burrill finished her first marathon at 86 and later became the oldest marathoner ever at 92, showing that age is not a finish line but a marker of more to come.

These stories remind listeners that success isn’t linear and certainly doesn’t belong exclusively to the young. Modern society can pressure us to achieve early, but the truth is that life’s best chapters can be written at any age. Social media’s highlight reels too often leave out the years of quiet effort and rebirth. According to motivational sources like Marie Forleo and VegOut Magazine, late bloomers often succeed not because they suddenly change course, but because they build on decades of experience and cultivate habits that propel them forward when the moment is finally right.

If you’re listening and feel like the window of opportunity has closed, remember you create your own timeline. Take stock of your unique skills and scars—they’re your unfair advantages. Consider what project or dream still calls out to you, recruit support, and give yourself permission to start, no matter how late it feels. Life’s most powerful stories are those where the ending is still unwritten—better late than never.

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Welcome, listeners. Today, let’s explore the phrase “better late than never,” a simple saying with profound meaning. This phrase has been with us since at least the fourteenth century, first appearing in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and translated directly from the ancient Latin proverb “potiusque sero quam nunquam.” At its heart, it reminds us that taking action—even if delayed—matters far more than not acting at all.

Consider the countless stories of people who embraced second chances and found success well after most would’ve written them off. Vera Wang didn’t design her first wedding dress until 40, after a career as a figure skater and magazine editor. Frank McCourt published his best-selling, Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir Angela’s Ashes at age 66, decades after he might have been considered ‘too old’ to start anew. Gladys Burrill finished her first marathon at 86 and kept going, ultimately becoming the oldest marathon runner ever at 92. Their setbacks and delays didn’t define them—their determination did, proving that success has no expiration date.

Society often pressures us with strict timelines: graduate young, achieve early, and retire on schedule. These expectations can weigh heavily, leaving many feeling like missed opportunities can’t be reclaimed. But as we see from the stories of Taikichiro Mori, who became the world’s richest man in his 80s after a lifetime of humble perseverance, and Tina Fey, who rose to fame only after years of anonymity, life doesn’t follow a single script. The path to achievement is rarely straight, and late bloomers are living proof that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

If you’re listening and worried you’ve missed your moment, remember this: the wisdom behind “better late than never” encourages action over regret. List your unique strengths, choose a project that excites you, and find one person to support your journey forward. Even a small step today can lead somewhere extraordinary tomorrow. Your timeline is yours to create—success, growth, and joy can come at any age. So take the risk, try the thing you’ve always dreamed of, and remember, it truly is better late than never.

Thank you for tuning in—this is your reminder that each day offers a brand new second chance.

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Better late than never—three simple words that channel centuries of hope, patience, and perseverance. From its roots in Latin as “potiusque sero quam nunquam,” and its appearance in Geoffrey Chaucer’s *Canterbury Tales*, this phrase has anchored the idea that achievement and fulfillment do not expire, no matter how long the journey takes. In today’s society, where viral success stories pressure people to transform overnight, the reality is clearer than ever: success is not a sprint, but a personal voyage unique to every listener, regardless of the timeline.

Look at Vera Wang, who designed her first wedding dress at age 40 after years as a skater and magazine editor. Samuel L. Jackson didn’t secure his breakthrough role until 46. Even Ray Kroc, who transformed McDonald’s into a global giant, was 52 when he made his historic move. Gladys Burrill ran her first marathon at 86 and became the oldest marathon runner ever at 92. Their stories, alongside countless others featured in major outlets and platforms, remind us that the world’s most meaningful accomplishments often come to those who refuse to be bound by age or setbacks.

Yet for every celebrated public figure, there are everyday people—friends, neighbors, listeners—who overcome fears, failures, and missed opportunities to shape new lives. Whether launching businesses after retirement or finding love and learning in unexpected seasons, their perseverance defies a culture obsessed with youth and deadlines. Social media may portray life as a race, but late bloomers prove that there’s no “too late” for passion or purpose.

Listeners, if you feel you’ve missed your moment, remember: societal timelines are illusions. The wisdom of “better late than never” rests not only in doing, but in daring—daring to forgive yourself for the delays, to begin again, to surprise everyone, including yourself. Every small step, every late start, is a testament to your ability to rewrite your own story. Let the power of second chances encourage you, because the only opportunity truly missed is the one you refuse to take. Your best chapter could begin today.

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Better late than never. Listeners, this simple phrase, rooted in both ancient wisdom and timeless human experience, reminds us that taking action late is still far better than not taking action at all. The origin stretches back to the Latin proverb potiusque sero quam nunquam from Titus Livy’s History of Rome and appears in English through Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Over centuries, it has become a rallying cry for second chances and the power of perseverance.

In a world obsessed with speed and youthful achievement, it’s easy to feel like you’ve missed your window to pursue your dreams. Social media amplifies this pressure, making overnight success seem normal while making many question if it’s worth trying after a setback or delay. But stories of late bloomers turn this notion upside down.

Consider Taikichiro Mori, who, after a lifetime as a professor, became the world’s richest man in his 80s, transforming Tokyo’s skyline and legacy. Vera Wang did not design her first wedding dress until 40 and became a fashion icon after careers in skating and editing. Frank McCourt published Angela’s Ashes at age 66, winning the Pulitzer Prize and touching generations. Samuel L. Jackson’s breakout film role came at 46, decades after starting his acting journey.

These individuals defied both expectation and self-doubt because they refused to let society’s timelines limit them. According to Tim Denning, being around fresh perspectives, having a persistent vision, and embracing daily action are common to those who find their stride later in life. Modern psychology supports that humans possess an incredible capacity for growth and renewal at any age.

Listeners who fear it’s too late: remember, success doesn’t have an expiration date. If you’ve been telling yourself you should have started sooner, take inspiration from those who proved that the journey matters more than the timing. The world has space for your goals and gifts, no matter when you begin. Take the first step, however small, because—better late than never.

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Better late than never—an expression woven into nearly every language and culture—reminds us all that there is real value in showing up eventually rather than not at all. The phrase itself traces back at least to the Latin proverb potiusque sero quam nunquam, as found in the writings of the Roman historian Livy, and later appeared in English thanks to Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. The message is simple, but it carries powerful implications for how we view time, setbacks, and second chances.

Let’s talk about the pull of early success. Social media and modern culture sometimes suggest that if you haven’t achieved greatness by 25, you might have missed your shot. But look beyond the flashy headlines, and you’ll see that reality tells a much broader story. Vera Wang didn’t design her first dress until she was 40, after careers in figure skating and fashion editing. Samuel L. Jackson didn’t get his breakthrough role until he was 46, but went on to become a Hollywood giant. Author Frank McCourt published his first book at age 66, and it became a Pulitzer Prize winner. These well-known figures are not exceptions—they’re proof that the path to meaningful achievement is rarely straight or speedy.

In fact, late blooming isn’t just possible; it can be an advantage. According to recent stories collected by madeupmind.org, Haruki Murakami became a novelist at 29, Leonard Cohen released his first album at 33, and Gladys Burrill became a marathon runner at 86. Each of these individuals broke through when they were ready—not when society said they should.

But societal pressure to follow a linear timeline is real. It can whisper that missed deadlines or detours mean our dreams have an expiration date. If you’re listening right now and feel like the window has closed, remember that history, art, science, and everyday life are filled with people who started late and still changed the world.

Don’t let the calendar dictate your ambition. Every day brings a chance to begin again. Better late than never is not just a saying—it’s a call to endure, to try, and to trust that the best chapter may be the one you write next.

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Better late than never has long been a phrase that carries the promise of second chances and the quiet power of perseverance. Originating from the Latin potiusque sero quam nunquam and immortalized in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, this idiom is more than just a casual apology for tardiness—it’s an encouragement to pursue goals, regardless of when the journey starts.

Societal pressure can make listeners feel like time’s run out, and social media often magnifies a fear that success only belongs to the young. Yet history and headlines prove otherwise. Legendary Japanese developer Taikichiro Mori, deemed the richest man in the world when he passed at eighty-eight, built his fortune after a humble career as a professor. He transformed Tokyo’s Roppongi Hills neighborhood in his seventies, reminding everyone that new dreams can flourish at any age. Similarly, Vera Wang designed her first wedding dress at forty after decades as a figure skater and fashion editor. Samuel L. Jackson’s star exploded at forty-six, Morgan Freeman’s at fifty, and author Frank McCourt published his Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir at sixty-six.

The lesson for listeners is clear: success doesn’t have an expiration date, and life isn’t a race. Tina Fey didn’t break into comedy writing’s upper echelons until she was thirty, inspiring anyone who has felt overlooked or behind. Gladys Burrill finished her first marathon at eighty-six, going on to set records in her nineties. These stories underscore how late bloomers can change the narrative and give hope to those who wonder if it’s too late.

What holds many back are not real barriers, but labels and invisible timelines imposed by society. If listeners need inspiration, hear this—many of our most vital contributions, creative works, and cultural shifts come from those who simply refused to give up. Perseverance is often the missing ingredient. Whether the goal is artistic recognition, athletic achievement, or a business breakthrough, daily habits and unwavering vision can bring about extraordinary results.

So if you’re listening and worried you’ve missed your moment, remember: better late than never isn’t just a cliché—it’s a call to action. You have permission to begin again, and history is on your side.

The phrase better late than never is more than just a polite excuse for running behind schedule; it’s a timeless expression of hope and possibility. Tracing its roots to Latin—potiusque sero quam nunquam—and famously used by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales, this idiom reminds us that taking action, even after a delay, is far better than never trying at all. Our cultural obsession with youthful success can cast a long shadow, leading many to feel left behind if they don’t achieve their goals early in life. But the world is brimming with late bloomers whose stories challenge the myth that opportunity expires with age.

Take Taikichiro Mori, who transitioned from academia to real estate in his 50s and became the richest man in the world by his 80s; or Vera Wang, who began her career as a wedding dress designer at 40 after a previous life as a figure skater and editor. Samuel L. Jackson scored his breakout film role at 46, years after countless stage and minor film parts. Bestselling author Frank McCourt published his Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir Angela’s Ashes at 66, demonstrating once again that storytelling has no age limit. Even Tina Fey didn’t land her career-defining job as head writer on Saturday Night Live until age 30, showing that creative genius often takes time to surface. The careers of these individuals speak to a universal truth: the only deadline for reinvention is the one we impose on ourselves.

Society often pushes a narrative that younger is always better, but science suggests otherwise. Rich Karlgaard, author of Late Bloomers, points out that our brains continue developing well into our 20s and beyond, enhancing our creativity and wisdom as we age. Pressure to have life figured out early can leave us paralyzed, yet the stories of countless late bloomers prove that new chapters can start at any age.

Listeners, if you’ve ever felt like it’s too late to chase a dream or reinvent yourself, remember: life’s most powerful transformations can happen after detours and delays. Better late than never isn’t just a consolation—it’s an invitation to keep striving, regardless of where you are on your timeline. Your next milestone may be waiting just around the bend.

“Better late than never” is a phrase that has echoed through centuries, offering hope and resilience to anyone who feels out of step with life’s expected timetable. Originating as a direct translation from the Latin proverb potiusque sero quam nunquam and cited by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century, the phrase reminds listeners that taking action, even belatedly, is better than never trying at all, and that success is not chained to youth or a strict sense of timing.

The stories of late bloomers are testaments to this idea. Take Vera Wang, who didn’t design her first wedding dress until age 40 after careers in figure skating and magazine editing, and Frank McCourt, who published the Pulitzer-winning memoir “Angela’s Ashes” at 66. Morgan Freeman found mainstream fame at nearly 50, while Gladys Burrill became the oldest marathon runner at 92. Each of these individuals rewrote what it means to “arrive late”, proving that age or setback is not an endpoint, but can be a pivot to perseverance and brilliant reinvention. As Tim Denning writes, late bloomers like Taikichiro Mori, who became the world’s richest person in his late eighties, defied conventional timelines and reshaped entire industries and cultural landscapes.

In an era defined by social media’s rush for youth-driven achievement, societal pressures can leave listeners feeling as though missed opportunities are final. But the truth—repeated by countless icons and everyday heroes—is that success doesn’t have an expiration date. The world’s greatest innovations often come from those who persist despite setbacks, who refuse to let late starts define their futures.

Listeners, if you’re feeling behind, let these stories be your guide and encouragement. It’s never too late to pursue dreams, switch gears, or take that long-postponed leap toward your goals. When doubts creep in, remember: better late than never isn’t just a saying—it’s living proof that the power of second chances and perseverance can transform delays into triumphs. Your timeline is your own to create. Keep going, because your opportunity isn’t gone—it just might be waiting for your next step.

Welcome to today’s podcast, where we’re diving into the phrase better late than never and exploring the powerful theme of second chances. In a world where society often applauds the young prodigy and overnight success, it can feel daunting—almost shameful—to take the scenic route to your dreams. Social media blasts us with images of people making it by 25, but real life rarely follows such a neat timeline.

The truth is, success doesn’t have an expiration date. According to the site Teyxo, late bloomers like Tina Fey didn’t land her breakthrough at Saturday Night Live until she was 30, and Vera Wang didn’t even design her first wedding dress until 40, after careers in skating and editing. Frank McCourt didn’t publish his first book until he was 66, winning the Pulitzer for Angela’s Ashes. These stories remind us that it’s not about when you start, but that you start at all.

History is filled with such examples. Taikichiro Mori became the world’s richest man after starting his real estate journey well into his later years. He transformed neighborhoods in Japan and always said you’re never too old to reinvent yourself. Then there’s Samuel L. Jackson, who didn’t get his breakout film role until 46, or Gladys Burrill, who ran her first marathon at 86 and became a record holder at 92. The journey is personal. As Tim Denning explains, people often wrongly believe greatness is only for the young. The stories of these late bloomers tell a different tale: it’s perseverance, not youth, that’s the strongest predictor of success.

But what about the pressures we feel? Our culture programs us to believe that missing some invisible deadline means we’ve missed our chance. This mindset is not just harsh, it’s incorrect, and it robs us all of so much human potential and creativity. As recent articles urge, instead of marveling only at young achievers, we should celebrate every journey—regardless of the starting point.

To anyone listening who feels left behind or worried that your opportunity has passed, remember the wisdom captured in better late than never. Every step counts. Success, fulfillment, connection—they’re always worth reaching for, no matter when you begin. Your timeline is your own. Start today—because it truly is better late than never.

Better late than never—a phrase rooted in ancient wisdom—reminds us that taking action, even belatedly, is far more valuable than never attempting at all. Derived from the Latin “potius sero quam nunquam,” and first seen in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, this idiom has become part of our everyday language, used both sincerely and with a touch of irony when things don’t arrive quite on time. But beyond its literal meaning, “better late than never” captures a spirit of hope: the idea that second chances and perseverance hold incredible power.

History and current events are filled with stories of individuals who defied the pressures of doing everything young and achieved greatness on their own timelines. Taikichiro Mori became the richest man in the world well into his late sixties, only completing his landmark Roppongi Hills project in his 80s. Vera Wang pivoted to designing wedding dresses at 40 after her career in figure skating and fashion editing. Morgan Freeman wasn’t a household name until his 50s, and Gladys Burrill ran her first marathon at 86, later becoming the oldest marathon runner ever. These late bloomers didn’t just succeed—they transformed their industries and inspired millions.

Society often pushes the narrative that success has a deadline, fueled by social media images of prodigies and young moguls. It’s easy for listeners to fear that missing early opportunities means missing out forever. But research shows our brains keep growing and adapting throughout adulthood—creativity, wisdom, and focus often increase with age and life experience. This challenges the myth that accomplishment is reserved for the young. The pressure to conform to predetermined timelines can be paralyzing, but the most triumphant stories are shaped by persistence and a willingness to keep moving forward despite setbacks. The inspiration in “better late than never” is universal: whether you are starting a passion project in your forties, pursuing a degree in your sixties, or returning to a dream after decades, the most important step is not when you take it, but that you do.

Listeners, embrace your journey. Success is not a race and there are no missed opportunities unless you’re unwilling to begin. Your timeline is yours—and it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

Better late than never—for centuries, this phrase has encouraged people to take action, however delayed, rather than abandon their dreams entirely. With roots in both Latin and in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, where Chaucer wrote, “For better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period,” it remains a powerful reminder that opportunity is not confined to youth or perfect timing.

The phrase resonates in a world where society often celebrates prodigies and early achievements, making many feel discouraged when they arrive at new chapters later in life. Mary Mandell, writing for Meawisdom, reflects on the gift of being a late bloomer, embracing years spent forming deep relationships and personal growth rather than measuring her worth by society’s yardstick. She writes that “failures are not shortcomings but valuable learning experiences” and, even at 70, feels youthful and energized.

History and pop culture offer numerous vivid examples. Fashion designer Vera Wang didn’t create her first wedding dress until age 40, after careers as both a figure skater and magazine editor. Frank McCourt, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Angela’s Ashes, published his first book at 66, and actor Samuel L. Jackson’s breakout role didn’t arrive until he was 46. Businessman Taikichiro Mori was nearly 60 before launching the real estate career that made him the world’s richest man by the time of his death at 88. Their achievements underscore that, as Tim Denning points out, “you’re never too old to do anything” and success “doesn’t have an expiration date.”

Nonetheless, many listeners may relate to the societal pressures to achieve major milestones by a certain age or the silent judgment that follows perceived delay. Social media amplifies this urgency, showing highlight reels of young successes while masking the often long, winding journeys of accomplishment. It can leave people feeling as if they’ve missed their chance.

But the stories of “late bloomers” tell another truth. As Tina Fey and Takashi Murakami exemplify, creative and professional breakthroughs often come when people are ready—regardless of age. Listeners who fear time has passed them by can look to these examples and remember: you create your own timeline. Each day offers a new chance to begin, grow, and thrive. Better late than never—always.

Welcome, listeners. Today we’re exploring the timeless phrase “better late than never,” a saying rooted in history that champions the power of second chances and perseverance. This message, first appearing in English in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales and echoing an even older Latin proverb from Titus Livy, reminds us that it’s always preferable to act late than not at all—no matter how much time has passed.

Life rarely unfolds according to one master schedule. Societal pressures can make us believe there’s an expiration date for chasing dreams, but the real world is full of extraordinary stories that show otherwise. Take Katharine Graham, who didn’t lead The Washington Post until age 45 after personal tragedy forced her into a role she never thought she could fill. Her tenacity and quiet resolve transformed her into one of publishing’s most respected leaders.

Or consider Vera Wang, who designed her first wedding dress at 40, after earlier careers as a skater and magazine editor. Samuel L. Jackson landed his breakout acting role at 46, and Ray Kroc launched the McDonald’s empire at 52. Frank McCourt published his first award-winning memoir in his sixties, a testament that it’s never too late to tell your story. Gladys Burrill started running marathons in her eighties, becoming the oldest marathon finisher ever at age 92, while contemporary artist Takashi Murakami didn’t achieve international fame until his late thirties.

According to Big Think, late bloomers often develop quietly, building the resilience and drive that ultimately power their later success. Recent commentary in 2025 highlights how today’s culture is increasingly recognizing that each person’s journey unfolds on its own timeline. The stories of these individuals remind us that setbacks, detours, or delayed opportunities are not endpoints; in fact, they can be the foundation of lasting achievement.

Listeners, if you’ve ever felt like you missed your chance, remember the enduring wisdom of “better late than never.” Your timeline is your own, and every new effort is an opportunity for a second act. The world’s greatest contributions often come from those who simply refused to give up, no matter how long it took.

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re diving into the phrase “better late than never” and exploring its deep resonance with the ideas of second chances and perseverance. This saying, rooted in ancient wisdom, first appeared as a Latin proverb and was later popularized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales, highlighting the relief and opportunity in doing something late rather than not at all—an enduring reminder that it’s never too late to act or achieve.

In our world obsessed with youthful achievements, stories of late bloomers are often overshadowed. Yet, success truly has no expiration date. Take Susan Boyle, who, at 47, stepped onto the stage of Britain’s Got Talent and stunned the world. She faced skepticism and setbacks, even a stroke in 2023, but defied every odd to reclaim her place in the spotlight. Her story shows that raw talent and determination can emerge and flourish at any age, and opportunity can arrive just when you least expect it.

Tina Fey didn’t become Saturday Night Live’s first female head writer until age 30. Vera Wang designed her first wedding dress at 40, after years spent in different careers. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt only published his debut book, Angela’s Ashes, at 66. Each of their journeys tells us that milestones can be reached long after society’s supposed deadlines.

But still, societal pressures have a way of making us feel like we’re falling behind if we haven’t checked off certain boxes by a certain age. Social media and mainstream success stories can leave many listeners feeling discouraged, as if a missed opportunity is a permanent one. The truth is, there’s profound value in forging your own path and trusting your unique timeline. As Mary Mandell recently reflected in Meawisdom, the experiences and failures amassed along a winding journey often prove valuable, deepening relationships, growth, and sense of purpose.

Listeners, whether you’re launching a new dream at 25, 45, or 75, remember: nobody else gets to write your story for you. Success is a journey, not a race. It’s always better late than never, so take the step—however delayed it may feel. Your moment might just be waiting around the next corner.

The phrase better late than never has roots stretching back centuries, but its message is as relevant as ever in 2025. Attributed to both the Roman historian Livy and later popularized in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales in the 14th century, this idiom reassures us that it’s always worthwhile to take action or pursue a goal, even if it happens long after the “ideal” time.

In a world obsessed with early achievement—where social media often highlights twenty-something prodigies and overnight successes—it’s easy for listeners to feel behind or discouraged. Yet, as the stories of so-called late bloomers show, society’s timelines are not destiny. People like Vera Wang, who entered the fashion world and designed her first dress at 40, or Frank McCourt, who published his Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir Angela’s Ashes at 66, remind us that remarkable accomplishments can come at any stage of life. Even Susan Boyle, who stunned global audiences with her singing at age 47 and returned from a stroke in 2023 to perform once more, embodies the power of perseverance and the reality that talent has no expiration date.

The pressure to succeed young can make setbacks feel insurmountable. Yet, as Mary Mandell reflected in her essay, being a late bloomer is often a gift. The journey, with its detours and delays, allows for deep relationships, personal growth, and the perspective to see that failures are not flaws but valuable lessons. Tina Fey didn’t become the first female head writer at Saturday Night Live until she was 30, and Morgan Freeman’s iconic film career only took off in his fifties, showing that timelines for success are deeply personal and shouldn’t be dictated by external expectations.

For every listener feeling like you’ve missed your moment, remember—success doesn’t have an expiration date. Your story is yours to write, and it’s never too late to begin. As the idiom reminds us, better late than never. Pursue your dreams, take that next step, and celebrate every milestone on your own timeline.

Today, we’re exploring the phrase better late than never—a timeless reminder that action, even if delayed, is always more valuable than never trying at all. This saying traces its roots to ancient Latin and was popularized in English by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales over six centuries ago. Its core message continues to resonate, especially in a world often obsessed with youth, speed, and so-called “right timing.”

Society can pressure us into thinking that opportunities have an expiration date, but stories across recent years show that success—and fulfillment—are not reserved for the early risers or those who get everything right on the first try. Consider Taikichiro Mori, a Japanese professor who turned to real estate in his 50s, eventually becoming the richest man in the world by his late 80s. His daring projects, such as Roppongi Hills, transformed not just neighborhoods, but the perception of what's possible at any age. Or look at Vera Wang, who designed her first dress at age 40, and Frank McCourt, who published his Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir Angela’s Ashes at 66. These late bloomers didn’t just catch up; they excelled, proving that fulfillment and achievement can blossom far beyond conventional timelines.

The pressure to “make it” early can discourage people, leading to missed dreams and unfulfilled potential. Listeners, if you’ve ever felt like time has passed you by, let these stories be living proof that you create your own timeline. Whether you change careers, launch a creative project, or pursue a long-lost dream, perseverance matters far more than perfect timing.

As Gladys Burrill, who ran her first marathon at 86, once showed, it’s never too late to start. Take inspiration from those who refused to let age or past setbacks define their future. The world’s greatest achievements often belong to those who simply kept moving forward, no matter how late they began.

Remember: better late than never isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a rallying cry for anyone ready to claim a second chance. Your next chapter is yours to write, starting now.