It’s truly one of the most peculiar things you’ll encounter in your lifetime:

You’re having a conversation with someone, likely in their 30s or 40s. They’re not that much older than you, but there’s something about the way they talk that makes them seem… well, wise beyond their years.

You’ve done your best to wrap your head around it, but you can’t quite put your finger on it.

It’s not always overt, sometimes it’s incredibly subtle.

You just can’t shake the hunch that they’re an old soul trapped in a younger body, despite what conventional wisdom might suggest.

Here’s how to determine if this person is indeed an old soul, based on these eight phrases they tend to use in conversation – even if it turns everything you thought you knew on its head.

Below is the introduction to “If someone in their 30s and 40s uses these 8 phrases in a conversation, they’re most likely an old soul”.

1) They use phrases that seem from another time

Possibly one of the most distinct markers of an old soul is their vocabulary.

You notice it in the middle of a casual conversation. They drop a phrase that feels like it should be coming from your grandfather, not someone in their 30s or 40s.

It’s not about them using outdated slang or archaic words, but rather, their choice of expressions and idioms. They might say things like, “A penny for your thoughts,” or “Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched.”

This isn’t them trying to be ironic or quirky. It’s just the way they naturally express themselves, and it’s as if they’re channeling wisdom from a bygone era.

If this sounds like someone you know, they could very well be an old soul.

2) They often reference classic literature or old movies

The second tell-tale sign of an old soul is their affinity for classic literature, old movies, and timeless music.

There was this friend of mine in his early 40s, we’ll call him Tom. Tom had an absolute fascination with black and white cinema and could quote lines from “Gone with the Wind” or “The Maltese Falcon” like no one else I knew.

And it wasn’t just movies. Tom could effortlessly recite passages from classic novels like “The Great Gatsby” or “Pride and Prejudice”.

He wasn’t showing off, mind you. He genuinely loved these works and had a deep appreciation for their timeless messages. He’d often say that they don’t make them like they used to anymore.

Just like the first indicator, this too, suggests that the person you’re conversing with might be an old soul.

3) They quote timeless wisdom

It’s often said that old souls are just that because they’ve learned lessons in previous lives. Whether you believe in reincarnation or not, it’s hard to deny the wisdom that some people seem to have ingrained in them.

Take this quote from Mark Twain: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”

I’ve heard people in their 30s and 40s use this quote, and others like it, in a conversation. Not because they were trying to sound smart, but because they genuinely believed in the depth and wisdom these words carried.

They don’t just use these phrases; they live by them. They apply this wisdom to their everyday lives and interactions, showing a maturity and understanding of life that seems beyond their years.

This habit of quoting timeless wisdom is another sign that you might be dealing with an old soul.

4) They use words that foster connection

Old souls have a knack for fostering connection. They’re often the people in their 30s or 40s who choose words that bring people together, rather than create division or chaos.

There’s a peculiar pattern in their vocabulary. They often use phrases like “we’re in this together,” or “let’s find common ground,” even in everyday conversations.

A study conducted by psychologists at the University of California found that the use of these collective pronouns is linked to traits such as empathy, warmth, and emotional intelligence. It’s also a sign of being an old soul.

These individuals understand life is about cooperation rather than competition.

They see the value in unity and are often the ones advocating for peace and understanding in the middle of a heated argument.

So if you find someone using words that foster connection more often than not, you could be in the presence of an old soul.

5) They ponder on life’s big questions

Old souls are not shy about delving into life’s big questions.

They’re the ones in their 30s or 40s who might casually drop a phrase like, “What do you think the meaning of life is?” or “Have you ever wondered about the nature of existence?” in a dinner conversation.

They’re not trying to be profound for the sake of being profound. They genuinely enjoy exploring these deep topics, often finding comfort and understanding in their depths.

They believe that these conversations lead to personal growth and a better understanding of oneself and others.

They see life as a journey of learning and self-discovery, and they’re not afraid to take the road less traveled.

The passion for pondering life’s big questions is another strong indicator that you’re dealing with an old soul.

6) They speak of personal growth and self-improvement

There’s a unique thread that often runs through the conversations of old souls. They have a habit of steering discussions towards personal growth and self-improvement.

You’ll hear them using phrases like, “I’m working on becoming a better listener,” or “I’m trying to practice more mindfulness in my daily life.”

Their focus isn’t merely on external achievements, but also on internal growth.

They understand that real success is about becoming a better person, not just climbing the corporate ladder or adding zeros to their bank account.

This emphasis on personal growth and self-improvement in conversation is yet another sign that you might be talking to an old soul.

7) They display empathy in their language

Old souls are often deeply empathetic, and this quality shines through in their conversations.

You’ll notice that they frequently use phrases that convey understanding and compassion like, “I can imagine how hard that must have been,” or “You must be so proud of yourself for overcoming that.”

They’re not just paying lip service when they use such phrases. They genuinely strive to understand others’ perspectives and feelings, and they acknowledge these experiences in their language.

Their conversations are not about scoring points or proving a point but about connecting on a deeper level.

This empathetic language use is another strong sign of an old soul.

8) They talk about gratitude

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, old souls often express gratitude in their conversations.

Phrases like, “I’m so grateful for my experiences,” or “I appreciate the little things in life,” are common in their vocabulary.

They understand that life is a gift and that every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity for growth and learning. They don’t take things for granted and often remind others to do the same.

This focus on gratitude and appreciation for life is a hallmark of an old soul. So if you find someone frequently expressing gratitude in their conversations, you’re most likely talking to an old soul.

Final reflection

Engaging with an old soul can be a transformative experience.

If you find yourself recognizing these signs in your conversations with someone, chances are you’re interacting with an old soul.

This person’s unique approach to life and conversations can provide a refreshing perspective, challenging your own views and sparking self-reflection.

But it’s also worth noting that these traits aren’t exclusive to old souls. They are qualities we can all aspire to embody in our interactions.

After all, the use of thoughtful language, empathy, gratitude, and a focus on personal growth and big questions can enrich our lives and conversations.

As the famed poet Rumi once said, “Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”

In essence, whether you’re an old soul or not, the real takeaway here is the power of mindful communication.

It’s about being present, genuine, and empathetic in our interactions. It’s about using language as a tool to build connections and inspire growth—both in ourselves and others.

So next time you engage in conversation, take a leaf from the old soul’s book. You might just be surprised at how much more fulfilling your interactions can become.