Every post from OldDogZeroTricks in one place – the raw, the real, and the stuff we rarely admit out loud. This is the blog.
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December 23, 2025After 20 Years in Japan, My Japanese Is Still Pretty Basic (And That’s Complicated)
I have lived in Japan for 20 years. I have a 567-day Duolingo streak. Yet, I still panic at the tax office. Here is the complicated truth about why I am not fluent.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025Redefining Success: Beyond the Paycheque
I am living paycheque to paycheque at 57. I cycle to work because I cannot afford a car. By society’s standards, I failed. But somehow, I don’t feel like a failure. Here is why.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025The Power of Small Wins: Celebrating Life’s Quiet Triumphs
We have a bad habit of ruining good moments. We say “That was nice, but…” and immediately worry about tomorrow. Here is why you need to stop talking yourself out of feeling good.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025The Unexpected Gifts of Growing Older: Finding Joy, Freedom & Wisdom
Inside, we are all young souls looking through older eyes. Our faces are just a mask. Here is why I am finally making peace with the wrinkles and finding the unexpected gifts of aging.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025Apex Legends at This Age
I chose the username “OldDogZeroTricks” as a warning to my teammates. It means expect enthusiasm, not miracles. Here is why I still play chaotic shooter games at 57, even with slower reflexes.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025How Do You Balance Your Time When A Passion Won’t Let Go?
After five hours of digging sweet potatoes, I did not rest. I went straight to the computer. It is not discipline. It is a pull. Here is how I handle a passion that refuses to let go.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025Are You Mentally Healthy or Just Good at Coping?
You show up for work and smile at the right times. But inside, your mind is racing. This is the dangerous gap between looking fine and actually being fine.CONTINUE READING -
February 4, 2026Lost in a Care Home – Dementia
My mum never fed the dog from the table. When I heard my dad softly correct her over the phone, I knew something was wrong. I didn’t see what was creeping in until it was too late.CONTINUE READING -
March 4, 2026When Nothing Else Works, Put On Music
When overthinking kicks in and your mood drops, you’ve probably tried scrolling, snacking, or analyzing your way out of it. Here’s my simple reminder to just turn up some music. I’ve added a current Spotify playlist, too.CONTINUE READING -
February 9, 2026Why We Keep Chasing What Doesn’t Fit
Have you ever caught yourself working toward a job, a goal, or a relationship that feels off? I’ve spent years watching myself chasing the wrong things just because I thought I “should.” Here is what I’m learning about why we do this.CONTINUE READING -
December 23, 2025What’s Your Quality Time These Days?
Quality time means different things to us at different ages. This is what quality time looks like inCONTINUE READING -
March 2, 2026More Goodbyes Than Hellos
My student of 20 years, my boss’s father, my former roommates – the list is growing. As I prepare to move back to the UK, I’m realizing there’s less future than there used to be. But seeing other people’s chapters close is a blunt reminder not to waste what’s left of mine.CONTINUE READING
