At what age did your give-a-damn break? 55 here!
Posted by ExpensiveYak9516@reddit | GenX | View on Reddit | 540 comments
The title says it all. Wondering when others reached the point of just not giving a hoot about much of anything? Having a general attitude of indifference to just about everything. Seems a bit irresponsible, but it is what it is.
Sensitive_Note1139@reddit
Mine broke when I went through breast cancer when I was 48. I also have to be mindful of my "Go F' yourself" attitude now. Whole world is burning down and I just can't look in my bathroom mirror and care.
LariRed@reddit
I think it happened when I turned 50. So much was going on that I think I blew a fuse and just said “wtf is this even, no more birthdays, no more getting closer into the clutches of aarp and the ferryman”. I just don’t care anymore because I’m just exhausted.
Material_Pangolin851@reddit
At 51 when my dad passed completely unexpectedly from a massive stroke 2 weeks into COVID. We were each able to see him individually a couple times when he first went to ICU, until he passed 3 days later. For his funeral we were only allowed about 10 folks in person. He is and was the best person I will ever know, and deserved so much more.
Jpeckergnat88@reddit
My “give a damn” being broken is not my main issue. It’s my highly functioning “you can go fuck yourself” that I have to watch out for.
Worth-Canary-9189@reddit
Yeah, that's been functional since my early 30's.
Charming-Insurance@reddit
This is my answer. I wasn’t born with any damns. It’s my life long bad attitude that has gone down on my permanent record. 🤷🏻♀️
she_slithers_slyly@reddit
I walk the tightline of both. I cruise along in the dgaf range until something/one rudely pisses me off (irl) then it's too late to pause or stop the "oh it's on, mother fucker" setting.
Duran518@reddit
Yes! We can be really nice and super chill right! 😂😂😂😂 It’s the stupid people’s fault!
surfacing_husky@reddit
Yes! At 41 i stopped giving a fuck what people thought at 20, now my favorite thing to do as an old lady is put stupid people in their place. I look like a karen but am far from it lol.
Mullhousen@reddit
Perfect
she_slithers_slyly@reddit
Bingo.
jnyquest@reddit
Most of us Gen-Xers were self-centered pricks. It's how we were able to survive as long as we did. I know I am. 😀
jdmcdaid@reddit
Indeed. My tolerance for bullies, always low, has dropped almost to zero at this point.
Duran518@reddit
Scoping is our talent!
DreadPirateWade@reddit
I think “oh it’s on motherfucker” is my default setting. I keep trying to change it to the less agro “really dickhead” or the factory default of “fuck off”.
DrShankensteinMD@reddit
Same and I come from a punk rock backgroud, so I was known to throw down on occasion. My GAF also involved those I felt were picking on people for dominance sake, so I would sometime stick my nose where it didn't belong, because I hate forking bullies.
she_slithers_slyly@reddit
Bullying bullies has always been a cherished pastime.
WaterwingsDavid@reddit
Good for you! I was bullied a lot as a kid
Loud_Cockroach_3344@reddit
Nice to see my tribe rep’d here!!! Ty for checking in!!!
ballsack-vinaigrette@reddit
Mine is more of a bouncy slackline.
Sea_Currency_3800@reddit
This is why I can’t drink
KevlarKoala1@reddit
Too much fuckitol is never a good thing.
she_slithers_slyly@reddit
Yeah, hospital or jail is never an ideal way to end the evening.
she_slithers_slyly@reddit
I have few inhibitions sober and zero inhibitions when I drink so yeah, this is 100% why I don't drink.
But even when I did, I didn't enjoy the Asian flush.
Smile-Cat-Coconut@reddit
Oh hi, twin
candidcapturepro@reddit
ah... but there are 3 of us.
Devildog_627@reddit
Four now…
Follow-The-Money19@reddit
Make room for me!
n00dl3s54@reddit
Alltheprettydresses@reddit
We are legion!
candidcapturepro@reddit
this🏆🇺🇸
GorillasonTurtles@reddit
Dozens of us! Dozens!
aceholeman@reddit
We now have a quorum.
Plastic-Ad-5171@reddit
6!
SQWRLLY1@reddit
Septuplets!
Bokononfoma@reddit
Only 7? Go fuck yourself (kidding!).
GenXrules69@reddit
I resemble that remark
rokken70@reddit
Yup. The “You can go fuck yourself” is functioning at 100% capacity with the current state of the world.
SQWRLLY1@reddit
Same. My bullshit tolerance level gets lower every year.
RadiantTransition793@reddit
Same and I’ve gotten tired of replacing my hip waders…
SQWRLLY1@reddit
I'm glad I'm not the only one who uses that reference.
theDagman@reddit
Back in high school, I used to wear a button on my denim vest that read "This button contains a highly sophisticated bullshit detector. When alarm sounds, please reengage your brain."
I had to stop wearing it because the alarm just would not shut up.
not_today_mfer@reddit
Ditto
pitterlpatter@reddit
This needs to be on a t-shirt.
azchocolatelover@reddit
Yup. Same here.
RadiantTransition793@reddit
My “Go FAFO” is right up there with my GFYS.
No-Day-5964@reddit
THIS. And the closer I get to retirement the trickier the trigger is!
glaciers4@reddit
This. Happened at around 45 years old for me.
beepbeepchopchop@reddit
Me too
obxtalldude@reddit
Well said.
Not giving a damn is helping me avoid the go fuck yourself so many need... but it would still bite me in the ass.
But when I get the rare excuse to care and play the righteous man... it's so cathartic to release the fuck yourselves you've been holding back on the idiot.
East-Pound9884@reddit
Ugh, me too. I am so close to saying “fuck off asshole” at least once a day to various people and have to pull myself back.
Gizlby22@reddit
I’m either or depending on the day or mood. But for my family my “give a damn” broke when my mom gave my baby crib away to her friend without even asking me!! My son was barely 1 at the time and I wanted to convert it into a toddler bed for him. But we were moving and she just gave it away. After that I sort of washed my hands of her and my dad. The horrible part was that we were actually buying a house so they could move in with us and help take care of the kids. It took about a year to get out of it and we moved closer to my hubs work. I still stayed in contact with her but it was only for the kids. She passed away 3 years later from ALS. Now for my dad I am really low contact now and my “give a damn” was completely broken when he decided to marry someone without even telling me and kept it a secret for almost a year.
ancientastronaut2@reddit
Totally. It's a fine line.
jazzdabb@reddit
The hottest of hot takes ... and it's right on the money!
AffectionateLie6252@reddit
THIS
Fun_Ad3902@reddit
2nd grade. By 6th I was a veteran at not giving a shit.
seigezunt@reddit
Theemperorsmith@reddit
Me too
OM_Trapper@reddit
Probably 14, won't go into details.
ExCatGenX@reddit
I’m turning 50 soon and I’m a reformed people pleaser. I now have firm boundaries and don’t tolerate other people’s BS. It’s liberating and I wish I’d been this way earlier in my life
sdia1965@reddit
I have never given much of a fuck what most other people think me, but these synapses became hard wired at around 53 (I’m just 60 now, an old GenX). That said, I have strong opinions about people, especially if they are purposefully ignorant and/or cruel, and ethically lazy and/or corrupt. Those red hat fascist a can go fuck all the way off.
Training-Nerve-6585@reddit
Space_Case_Stace@reddit
My give a damn broke a couple years ago. I have zero inclination of repairing it. It's more fun this way.
CharmingWarlord@reddit
52
Kalena426@reddit
Yep, about 55, and now, i just say it, no apologies
IcyCryptographer5919@reddit
35
FewEase5062@reddit
I consciously gave up the word “should” for my 40th birthday (many years ago).
Tough_Classic757@reddit
Im 49 and I lost my give a damn a few months ago. Just don’t care about working so hard and achieving anything anymore. Don’t care if the dishes are done. Or the laundry. Or if I call anyone. Or if they call me. I just do not care about anything other than a few people and some days that’s iffy lol. I’m blaming menopause though cause it’s a hell of a ride.
Absinthe_gaze@reddit
43
CallMeSkii@reddit
We are GenX... so we have been like that for a while.
Brevemike@reddit
My give a fuck went in 2009, my give a damn went sometime during covid. Not sure when exactly, but I don’t really give damn. Once my rat’s ass goes I’m walking myself to the crematorium.
Sitcom_kid@reddit
Birth, but it's not good. But birth.
alwaysonthemove0516@reddit
Behold! My field of fucks, and see that it is barren! ….and has been since I was around 30 or so 😂
GeoHog713@reddit
When I got married
BooBoo_Kitty@reddit
It’s given me an amazing life to not give a flying fuck what others think. Or to bothering thinking about people that I give no fucks about. It’s freeing. I carved my own path, do my own thing. Love me or hate me; there’s nothing in between.
BrianDamage666@reddit
Like 13.
gingernymph420@reddit
Don't know about my gi e a damn but I've run entirely out of any fucks left to give to the asshole population and you know what I mean so please stop being dorks!¡!
Glittering-Law7516@reddit
No one even answers the questions anymore!!!! 47
Limp_Comedian2043@reddit
I’m 48. 25 years as a nurse. Probably never retiring. I have young children, one of which is special needs. I’m out of fucks, and nothing surprises me ever. I got spit on on Thursday, right in my face. Got told I was out of line by a 25 yr old doctor for asking for Tylenol for a patient. Came home to chaos, children angry at my wife. The power was out because of a storm, some deer farted 3 miles from my house, with wind from that fart caused a power outage in my area. We have the weakest power grid. I’m pretty sure the retirement plan now consists of us working until we’re dead.
The_Pharoah@reddit
Mid 30s. I'm in my late 40s and my no of fks given is lower than zero.
scotiacarter@reddit
50 for me. Over everyone’s bullshit!
CompleteService8593@reddit
57 here and I’d say early 50’s. I’m now in my fuck you I’m doing what I want stage.
cmparkerson@reddit
I'm 55,it started in my 20s was full blown by 30. I have a real short list of people,things and issues I care about at all
ServiceKooky1323@reddit
50
Ok-Limit-9726@reddit
7 years and i will officially enter "no shits given anymore" period called RETIREMENT!
nottodayautoimmune@reddit
Ran out of fvcks at 26. Don’t miss them, either. Pretty sure my family and a real jerk of an ex abused them right out of me. That actually worked out for the best because certain parts of my job would be downright impossible if I cared what others thought about what I was doing.
OtherThumbs@reddit
13
I'm still nice to people, but I'm also really good at shutting them and their problems right off. It's like they never existed moments later. It came from living with so much drama! It was either that or have my eyes fall out of my heat from rolling them so much.
EducationalOutcome26@reddit
im 56 and guessing it was at the point that i covered everything financially and then watched my son graduate from college. that was the last of it I dont owe not a single sob in this world anything was the thought at the time.
ive got the financial side covered and can retire at 8am in the morning when the office opens if i choose to. but I stay at work because this is what i choose to do, im good at it and these are the people i choose to do this with, if i have a project im diligent and thorough,and do my best. dont let someone try to make life complicated tho there are no fucks left to give, someone gives me shit and they get it straight back in firehose volumes. I DONT CARE,
oddly since this transformation 12 years ago or so i keep getting bigger projects larger raises & bonuses and more talk from senior management about the need to retain senior staff and mentoring younger staff.
im like what? you want me to teach the kids how to be an asshole?? no problem.
JulieThinx@reddit
47
Jsmith2127@reddit
My give a damn has been on the fritz since the late 80s
Whatever53143@reddit
I will be 55 next month! I’m not exactly sure when when my ‘give a damn’ broke, but I think it coincided when I ran out of Fucks to give. I’m not sure. I will have to check my receipts.
brooklynflyer@reddit
For me it was around 16
Taticat@reddit
Exactly this, if not before. I don’t care what anyone else does or thinks — apparently I was one of the few paying attention when mom and my kindergarten teacher said ‘don’t worry about what Laura is doing; keep your eyes on your own work!’, and realised that following this makes just about everything actually easier in life, not harder. Laura isn’t my responsibility. Nothing she says or does makes any difference in my world. I’m responsible for me, for my younger siblings, and occasionally my parents. That’s it. That’s all I have to concern myself with.
If Laura and/or her friends don’t like something I’m doing, it doesn’t matter. Again — not my responsibility. Go be mad. 🤷🏻♀️
I dress for me, speak for me, write for me, and teach others for me. If they don’t like it, 🤷🏻♀️. Bye. World’s full of people who’ll tell you what you want to hear; go look there.
Don’t like my lifestyle, dress, or conduct? Again, 🤷🏻♀️. World’s full of people who are going to be interested in your opinions. I’m not. You’re an authority? Once again, 🤷🏻♀️. I could wallpaper the Winchester Mansion — ceilings and floors included — with the completely wrong, totally misguided opinions of authorities and experts. I’ll respect you when you act like you’re worthy of respect, not because you have some nonsense title. Similarly, I respect people who’ll never hold a title in their lives because they’re authentic; they’re doing the best they can, too, and they’re honest about it and their shortcomings.
I don’t exist to bring anyone in line, except my younger siblings, and today not even them anymore. Don’t like what I have to say? Yet again, 🤷🏻♀️.
Go be a weird bitch somewhere else. I’m not interested. Bye.
Aware-Owl4346@reddit
Same. This is the GenX sub. I thought we were born without a give-a-damn module.
Critical_Seat_1907@reddit
Same.
Never wanted to "fit in," only did it as a self-defense so I wouldn't get singled out as a weird kid and bullied. Going through life in disguise hurts and led me down a lot of dead ends.
Finally getting the strength to embody my desire to get the fuck away from this simulation is the only thing still keeping me going.
Junior_Statement_262@reddit
haha, I was always trying to "fit out."
wwarr@reddit
Same. It definitely happened in highschool and I never looked back. Best decision I ever made.
PetzlPretzl@reddit
I only had to scroll past one other response to find this and, frankly, that was too far. Not giving a damn is the whole point of our generation.
Hour-Theory-9088@reddit
I was in my early 20s. I found out life is so much more fun when you don’t care what other people think and do what makes you happy.
Big_Metal2470@reddit
About the same. I went from scared closeted kid constantly wondering why I didn't fit in to out loud proud and unwilling to put up with anyone's arbitrary bullshit. Didn't like it? Fuck you and the brother and sister who conceived you.
I started dressing like I wanted, fucking who I wanted, saying what I wanted, and doing what I wanted. The goddamn irony is that people liked me better and the ones who didn't fucked with me less. At my 10 year, three people told me they were jealous because I could be myself and they couldn't.
jazzdabb@reddit
I think 16 was about the time I decided it was perfectly acceptable to do my own thing and not worry AT ALL about other people's opinions. Never a joiner or follower though. Not my thing.
022ydagr8@reddit
Broke at 43
jasoncb123@reddit
About when I was 15 in 1991
Comfortable-Toe-863@reddit
Around 45-50, 54 now, not one single damn left to give!
Karefree2@reddit
Well, my 50th coincided with the pandemic, I think it was somewhere in there.
Dirtflea@reddit
I was 38, after having a heart attack. 48m almost 49 now and feel much better about it
JJQuantum@reddit
I still care about most things but I stopped giving a rats ass about moving up the ladder at work about 2 years ago, at 54. I simply got tired of the duplicity of upper management in every company for which I worked. Just working as a program manager now and have no desire to move up or be anything more. I do a great job and they pay me for it. That’s fine.
inafishbowl17@reddit
The look they give when you say I have no new goals is amazing.
What, you don't have a 5 year plan? Long-term goals? What about your personal brand?
That's a young man's game.
Electrical_Fishing81@reddit
Same here but was 47 last year. I could no longer stomach working for a company that clearly thought morals and scruples were Russian money. So, I looked around and found the perfect engineering job for me and now get to be an engineer and have about 3 layers of management between me and the “ELT” at this company. I don’t doubt they have the same misunderstanding of morals and scruples but I don’t have to see it day in and day out.
Quack68@reddit
Been at the same position for 18 years now.
Interesting_Shirt419@reddit
50
Otherwise-Let4664@reddit
I'm not sure I ever had one.. I've realized at 50 that I've been pretty much faking everything my entire life.. because I never really cared. We're just brainwashed and coerced into thinking we're supposed to. Now I just want to run away.. wild and free! 😄
NotEasilyConfused@reddit
Karamist623@reddit
I think I was about 40. I’m 60 now.
MIL argues that I care what people think (because she does).
I tell her all the time that I do not give a crap what anyone else thinks.
OkPizza2686@reddit
At 53
Vinz__Clortho_@reddit
49 it finally fully gave way. I have always been a speak my mind kind of guy though.
Agreeable_Skill_1599@reddit
My give-a-damn started showing signs of being busted at age 13. The crap that my Dad's 2nd wife pulled during my Granny's final days & her funeral was the straw that broke the camel's back. She could no longer use the threat of preventing visits to control me.
I went thru spells of it being functional or non-functional until I reached my mid-30s & my 2nd divorce. Since then, it's been almost totally non-functional. However, my "idc, go f*ck yourself" has been working just fine.
AreWeFlippinThereYet@reddit
59
chocoholic24@reddit
55 here. I don't give a fuck about shit anymore
jnyquest@reddit
Late 20s.
gevander2@reddit
My give-a-damn busted a long time ago. 30 years, minimum.
Ecjg2010@reddit
it's always been broken. I've never cared wjat others have thought.
trukkd@reddit
Not sure I ever had one.
katydidcare@reddit
55! I’m on what I’ve decided to call and Adulting Gap Year. Not only don’t I give a damn but all those who voted for this hateful reality were in can Fu$k All The Way Off FATWO…
DreadPirateWade@reddit
My give-a-damn broke sometime between 1993 and 1996, then in 1998 I hit a massive pothole and it tore what was left of my give-a-damn right off. It also punched a massive hole in my tank of fucks. I let those fucks just drain on out. So glad there aren’t any environmental regulations about letting your fucks run into storm drains. Well, at least there aren’t any where I live.
existdetective@reddit
I was one of those born social workers who cried during the fund raising commercials for the famines in Africa. So I always cared about human suffering & always wanted to be engaged in doing something about it. And during adulthood when I’d run into the intractability of human systems/organizations/bureaucracies, & the pervasiveness of oppression, I’d start feeling so helpless, hopeless, & burned out.
The second big burnout coincided with peri-menopause. Ugghh, did that ever suck. But also around that time I learned about how one’s “circle of concern” is always bigger than one’s “circle of influence.” This has helped me so much bc it reminds me of my limited power but also calls me to responsibility for my role in challenging the bullshit, whenever I can, wherever I can, however I can. It keeps me focused.
But I’ll never stop caring about all the ways humans cause suffering to other beings. I strive to comprehend why it happens & have empathy for those who harm & those who are harmed, but I do finally totally get that no one (least of all me) & nothing will ever “save the world.”
MyriVerse2@reddit
Still giving tons of damns.
kallisteaux@reddit
Not so much an age as having my husband leave me. I don't have the emotional depth to give a damn anymore. So 51?
scubasteve-76@reddit
You guys gave a damn before?🤔
existdetective@reddit
Whatever
MooPig48@reddit
Was gonna say isn’t that what we’re known for?
Duncaneli12@reddit
Not really
stuckontriphop@reddit
No.
Grand-Fun-206@reddit
About 13, year 9, when I had zero fucks about what the teachers thought about my choice of reading material (at the religious school my parents sent me to). I was reading horror exclusively at that stage.
Justthefacts6969@reddit
52
Benisey@reddit
I was TODAY years old so 54
Amberlove1972@reddit
9
WaterwingsDavid@reddit
Im there now...53. Im so fed up with everything!
Eastern_Habit_5503@reddit
My responsibilities at my age do not allow me to say “I don’t give a damn” yet. Once the current dog dies, I can see it happening. She only wants me to take care of her.
Playful-Leg6744@reddit
I got a small jar online that is prominently labeled "Fucks". It's empty, I get it out to show people I have none to give when needed.
Reddit____user___@reddit
It’s been a long slow decline over the past decade
potlizard@reddit
C’mon — We’re GenX — We never game a damn.
pquince1@reddit
About 55 I woke up one morning and started looking for my fucks. I just could not find them. It’s liberating!
Arvid38@reddit
It’s strange….. I turned 50 last month and like a switch went off and it has raised to I don’t give a flying fuck anymore 🤣
moonweasel906@reddit
Never had it to begin with
LeafyCandy@reddit
35
Correct-Condition-99@reddit
I was 47, so 2017. And the scab was ripped off by COVID.
amy_lou_who@reddit
Does give a damn break before or after give a fuck?
ht1660@reddit
Depends on the circumstance, lost some of it at 16, some at 36, and some at 46.
Hello_Hangnail@reddit
35 when perimenopause hit me like a mack truck
kent_eh@reddit
Mine has ebbed and flowed over time.
The last couple of years before I got laid off/retired had the 'ol giveafuckometer at record lows.
Now that I've been retired for a while, I'm starting to find things to care about again.
Wooden_Emphasis_8104@reddit
About 10.5 years ago. The husband passed kinda suddenly 11 yrs ago, there was a lot to deal with, unfinished and unplanned business, and no safety net, no nest egg, just me and our son. It was scary.
After 4-ish months of trying to remain calm, polite, be kind and understanding, kiddo starting elementary school in a new neighborhood, trying to get other things done and keep up with HIS social circle (aka his clients), I just hit a wall and said no more.
The IDGAFs happened after menopause.
AdWestern994@reddit
35.
pidgeon92@reddit
I believe it was Nov 6, 2024.
ObviousCarpet2907@reddit
cordless_tool@reddit
Mine broke right around the time I turned 50.
MaleficentMousse7473@reddit
45, ten years ago
Mellymel75@reddit
Certain things have never embarrassed me, as I inch closer to 50 it's definitely gone.
Northman_76@reddit
I'd say at about 30 for me, and my, "who fuckin cares" is at peak performance levels now at 48.
USAF_Retired2017@reddit
36
msjg@reddit
Love your flair! I'm a USMC brat who was also raised on hose water and neglect! We moved so much... Sigh. Those were the days.
USAF_Retired2017@reddit
I was born and raised in the same boring ass town and was so happy to join and go see the world. My oldest is 16 and has lived in 7 states. Ha ha. He says he likes it and he wants to see more of the world. I told him to get a good paying job if that’s what he wants because the military is out of the question for him. I’m so jealous you got to move around so much.
Street_Barnacle4561@reddit
I call it Fuck It Fifty Five!
JadeGrapes@reddit
That guy singing in the suit store is my heart song;
https://youtu.be/Vqbk9cDX0l0?si=r5j5Owhw2XMpEG0M
dexbasedpaladin@reddit
Mid 20s
Chai-Tea-Rex-2525@reddit
5 years old according to my parents.
voucher420@reddit
I remember being bullied in kindergarten and some of the other boys wouldn’t let up on the playground climbing tower. I took off to it first one recess and one of the other kids tried pulling me down while I was climbing the ladder. I placed that foot on a rung and kicked him in the face with the other one. I had to sit out recess, but that kid never fucked with me again.
BearMiner@reddit
My "F*cks to Give" meter ran low in my mid 40's.
RaisnCane@reddit
Never had a give a damn at all
I could not care less what anyone thinks of me
BIGepidural@reddit
In my 20s if I ever even had one at all 😂
jeep242@reddit
48, when I was in the hospital for a tia stroke.
vinsane38@reddit
My DNA show a high concentration of the IDGAF factors, and has since my daughter was born at age 40. Besides fantasy football, my focus field is much tighter
DrGoManGo@reddit
Wait, we were supposed to give a damn?
paolohu@reddit
7
Val-E-Girl@reddit
47 was my last F.
SaebraK@reddit
Like 15, in highschool.
ForsakenHelicopter66@reddit
I think mine was about 55-56. Menopause brought rage to a simmer, right below the surface. Out of fucks, damns, and shits.
Puzzled-Atmosphere-1@reddit
Same age here and you may be on to something; I had been heading in this direction for a few years, but I think 55 made it official. I’m done
Similar_Corner8081@reddit
I was 40.
Ferrindel@reddit
42.
Zetavu@reddit
Rule of 55, since I was still working at the same company my 401k is in at age 55, I can now take anything I want penalty free. I've passed the minimum safety holdings to last our life, only unknowns are inflation and insurance (and the stupidity of our government).
So basically I told work i am now semi-retired, work 90% from home at whatever pace I decide, and they are welcome to package me out.
You think they would, but even at reduced rate I'm still their most productive...
merlyndavis@reddit
Twelve?
jacky4u3@reddit
47
NickyRaZz@reddit
Give a damn still works. Give a fuck is broken and has been since 35
Minimum-Machine-231@reddit
17
Scratch_Harris@reddit
Around 48. It was like the cloak of unimportant cares I’d been schlepping around with suddenly vanished. Someone I knew told me to Fuck off and meant it and I suddenly realised I didn’t give a shit. The dam just broke after that…one by one…social media, gaming, watching football, dickhead friends all faded into the background unbidden. Very liberating…I did singing lessons, open mics and dove straight back into a creative streak that still going. At 54 I joined Reddit just to engage again for when I finally release something but other than that I’ve been fully focused on what’s important like my autistic son and my music.
akrobert@reddit
Pretty much my give a shit completely broke during Covid. Before that I just disliked a lot of people
JettaLove@reddit
For me 60! I care deeply about the things that matter but I no matter what I don’t obsess over perfection.
AdultinginCali@reddit
When I turned 40. "I'm 40, so fuk it."
Irishfan72@reddit
About 52 here, which was a year ago. Not sure what changed but it has actually been more liberating than I thought it would be.
I used to work for mega corp and judged people like how I am now. 🤣
Not sure I could go back to the old way if I tried.
Frosty-Sorbet3698@reddit
50
Isiotic_Mind@reddit
Feels like I'm getting there right now
Godz1lla1@reddit
50, and since then life has never been better. Let it go, take the world of idiots off your shoulders.
EdAddict@reddit
Mine broke around 39. At 50, it just disappeared.
moon_goddess_420@reddit
I'm in my 50s. I just do not give a F*CK anymore. Lol
radiantwave@reddit
November 23, 1999 it cracked... November 15, 2014, it shattered.
Since then I just cannot give a fuck about much. Everything just seems like some kind of a cruel joke.
Dragon_Rider11@reddit
30ish.
kronik419@reddit
12
SoCalChrisW@reddit
45 here. My field of fucks started withering a while ago, now it's barren.
Beauphedes_Knutz@reddit
My Give-A-Damn busted back in my 20s. I started skipping out on tons of life that 'had to take place'.
No it didn't and we didn't miss a thing. We essentially told all our families to Fuck-All-The-Way-Off. Been persona non grata for 30ish years. Best years (until my wife passed in 2020).
lakerstl@reddit
42
lakerstl@reddit
46 now, it’s been a peaceful 4 years
Agreeable-You-8223@reddit
51 .. I am 52 now. Wish it had happened sooner .. but it is what it is
Common-senseuser-58@reddit
59
PleasantLibrarian434@reddit
44 here
Competitive_Owl_9879@reddit
40!
Recent_Opportunity78@reddit
Already there. I just want to live out in the middle of a desert away from most all humans for as much as I can be. Live on the road a majority of the year where my only interactions are for getting food, vehicle maintenance, yearly doctor visit / health / ect and that’s about it.
RaspberryVespa@reddit
Partially at 27 and then hard at 32.
shewhoisneverbroken@reddit
I ran out of fucks at 22. Best thing that ever could have happened.
IcySample6634@reddit
9 lol
c1ncinasty@reddit
What was that quote from George Carlin? "Scratch any cynic, underneath you'll find a disappointed idealist."
JasterMereel42@reddit
Holy shit, that pretty much sums me up right there.
Argon_Boix@reddit
America’s greatest philosopher.
IWantTheLastSlice@reddit
So true
unicornbelly@reddit
My 50th birthday. I was already getting close but that day pushed me over the edge. When my father turned 50 I threw him a huge surprise party. He told me many times it was one of the best days of his life. So when 50 was nearing for me I got pretty excited because my daughter (28 at the time) and I were way closer than my dad and I were. But nothing happened. My wife had a few friends meet at the closest restaurant to our house. It was great seeing them all and I'm glad they came. My daughter was there but really didn't seem interested in being there. I found out later she was supposed to bring decorations and balloons at my wife's request but said she forgot to do it. It was the single greatest letdown of my life. I talked to her about it a few days later and her response was "I didn't think that was my responsibility." She's my only child. And when I put my dad's together I didn't see it as a responsibility, I saw it as a pleasure. It's now three years later. I don't have much of a relationship with anyone. I don't care about birthdays any longer. Or any holidays for that matter. It's really weird. I know it was my own fault for having high expectations and it shouldn't have changed my mind so drastically but it did.
peaceloveandapostacy@reddit
Seems to be in the process of breaking now… 43(m) little voice in my head rising above the many others saying over and over… “it doesn’t matter…it doesn’t matter… it doesn’t fucking matter.”.. it’s been quite releasing
wishmachine007@reddit
When I was 42 my mom had a debilitating stroke. Nothing makes you not give a damn as much as a crash course in full time caregiving. I thought I had problems before that… wow, were those problems tiny! I guess one silver lining is that now that my mom is gone, I know I don’t have time to half-ass anything. I choose how to spend my free time, and have learned how to say “would love to but I can’t” without the guilt.
WileyCoyote7@reddit
Few years ago, so around 47-48. Started saying “no” when I really meant no, instead of “yes.” Everything just fell into place after that.
marslp@reddit
Right around when I turned 50. I tell people I’m in my i-ties (no-Fs fifties)
The_Brofucius@reddit
April 1st 1989, when I became father for the first time to three little girls. Once I held them, that is when I stop giving a damn about anyone, or anything not related to me, or going into combat with me.
HRKatinhell@reddit
45 but I have always thought what will be will be
wondergirlinside@reddit
About 42
SlipstreamSleuth@reddit
I think this is actually kind of sad. I’m glad my ‘give a damn’ hasn’t broken,, if anything, I care more deeply now than I did when I was younger. About people, the planet, my health, how I spend my time, and how I treat others.
I get that burnout and disappointment can wear people down, but I think indifference can be a form of self-protection ya know? Not always a sign of wisdom. I’m genuinely curious: for those who feel this way, what made you stop caring? And is there a part of you that misses giving a damn?
solarpsychedelic@reddit
Yes, I still care about family, friends, and the big issues.
I think at this age it's now a matter of choosing your battles wisely.
SlipstreamSleuth@reddit
Absolutely 👍🏻
YoureSooMoneyy@reddit
For me it doesn’t mean the lack of caring deeply about people and situations. Not at all. I care very deeply and most of the time I don’t think others are capable of the deep love I have etc. I really don’t.
For me, it is the ultimate wisdom to put aside the burden of judgement of others. Who cares? Speak up for yourself and others opinions be damned. Like I said above, I stopped caring about defending myself and educating others. I don’t give a damn what you do with your life either. It is definitely a form of self preservation but isn’t that the goal?
:)
SlipstreamSleuth@reddit
I have to say, the part about others not being capable of the deep love you have feels a bit… presumptuous? I think many people feel and love deeply,, even if they express it differently. That kind of judgment feels at odds with the idea of letting go of judgment, no?
YoureSooMoneyy@reddit
I’m not saying it’s right. I would never tell anyone that. I definitely don’t care about people judging ME. I never said I don’t judge them, silently, though. It’s not right but usually it’s very specific things. Things that are usually objectively bad. I go to great lengths to never show that outwardly, especially to the kids. I’ve never allowed petty judgments around me about others; their hair, their looks… those types of things drive me crazy.
But I do feel that way about some people. Mostly with other parents. For example: a woman who is constantly chasing men, finding a man, trying to keep a man, instead of nurturing a deep loving connection to her children… yea, I’m judging that. But also, whatever. Nothing I can do about it. I won’t be speaking out about it or wagging my finger at anyone.
I’m not perfect. But I am glad I don’t waste time fretting over anyone’s opinion about me. I’m strong enough to know when I’m doing something that needs to change. I don’t trust anyone else enough to take their word for it. You know?
SlipstreamSleuth@reddit
Thanks for the thoughtful reply. I hear what you’re saying,, and I respect that you try not to project judgment outwardly, especially around kids. That matters. But I still think there’s a subtle trap in believing we can accurately measure how deeply someone else loves or how ‘objectively bad’ something is. I totally get having opinions, i mean we all do. But when we quietly rank people’s worth or depth based on our own lens, even if we never say it out loud, it shapes how we move through the world.
And I guess that’s what I find interesting: we stop caring what others think of us, which is freeing. But if that freedom turns into quietly looking down on others for doing life differently, then… have we really let go of judgment, or just redirected it?
None of us are perfect, me included. But I’m trying to stay open enough to believe most people are doing the best they can with what they’ve got. Even if I don’t always understand it.
_TallOldOne_@reddit
Honestly. I used to care, however that was me, you and about 20 other people. Or so it felt. So I gave up. Now I care about those close to me and the few like minded people I know or meet along the way. Why should I care about people who rather I drop dead then they be inconvenienced in even the slightest way? What makes their needs , wants and desires more important than mine? Screw that. I don’t have time for those kinds of people anymore.
SlipstreamSleuth@reddit
Ouch :( I know people can be incredibly selfish, and it’s draining to keep showing up in this world that often feels indifferent. But I guess for me, I don’t want to let the worst of people decide the kind of person I want to be. I’ve definitely pulled my energy back from performative caring or trying to please everyone, but I still want to be someone who gives a damn,, even if it’s just for the people and causes that stir something real in me. I don’t think that makes me naïve. I think it keeps me human. 🥰
Grimmsjoke@reddit
I can't remember ever having such a thing.
ncpowderhound@reddit
When I hit perimenopause in my early 40s. Running is the only thing that saved my sanity and what comes out of my mouth.
RoughDoughCough@reddit
I’m still struggling with it. I keep finding myself giving a teeny tiny lil bit of a fuck when I shouldn’t anymore. Someone should start Fuck Givers Anonymous. I would sign up.
Donkeyshow3@reddit
I've been in retail since 97 when I turned 18 so I'll say 98
PsychologicalTry892@reddit
52
No-Jump-9601@reddit
Same.
I’ve always struggled with a faulty bullshit filter, I’ve never really been able to tolerate it and used to rage against it.
Some time around 43/44 it finally broke and since then I’ve been in full DGAF mode. It’s really freeing and allows me to concentrate on the important things in life.
Training_Number_9954@reddit
At birth.
😂👍
PurpleHat6415@reddit
pandemic times probably got it here early, so like early 40s. I'd have probably been fine for another 5 years or so but that just took people and things I wasn't ready to let go of and now idgaf.
jseger9000@reddit
Well, we are the 'whatever' generation.
But I'd say my give-a-damn broke when I started wearing Crocs out in public a few years ago. So fifty for me.
agenericb@reddit
53 years old… I quit corporate America with no safety net. I did nothing for a year but stare at my ceiling. Then I picked myself up and started a side-hustle that I always wanted to do growing up. After 2 years now the side-hustle is growing into a full time job. I still have a family to provide for, but I worked since I was 15 years old and just came to the point where my working in Corporate America was destroying my body and mind. Fortunately, I have a very understanding wife and daughter who have supported me through the transition. We may not have as much cash coming in monthly as we did a couple years ago, but I’m extremely happy and excited about the future and that makes my family happier than the extra cash!
jdmcdaid@reddit
I prefer to think of it as adopting the philosophical trappings of Stoicism, LOL. About 52 is when I saw the light (Just turned 55).
Jimmy-the-Knuckle@reddit
At 53, I came upon a realization that the foundation of people being shitty lies in their tendency to make other people have to manage their problems for them.
Forcing me to interact with their off leash dogs (shouting “he’s friendly! the whole time), cutting in line at the grocery store and needing to reminded that the line is behind us, propping their poor kids on the street ahead of decent families lined at the curb at Fourth of July parades, the list goes on and on.
Once I realized things in this framework, I immediately changed my reaction to how I deal w these entitled people.
LeighofMar@reddit
Dan-68@reddit
Joe-_-Momma-@reddit
If we remove kids and grandkids. I was around 19.
If we include grandkids, I still care about them but to hell with the rest of the 🌎!
heyitspokey@reddit
11
aerwalker@reddit
ThrowRAboredinAZ77@reddit
47
Justagirleatingcake@reddit
Mine broke a couple months ago - 48.
Perimenopause is a bitch but ceasing to give a fuck about most things is a great silver lining.
Heynowstopityou@reddit
Y'all had a give a damn book?
_SkiFast_@reddit
That's why it's so hard to get a new job in your 50s. Traditionally they wanted to hire young minds that are inexperienced in resisting bullshit motivational talk. They don't want people who see through the nonsense and that the company doesn't give a shit about you. It must be crazy now with that old technique when GenZ is already mentally where we got in our 50s.
What a time to be alive. We are still a harder working group that can focus on the work and getting shit done instead of filling out tps reports.
Most_Routine2325@reddit
When I became a 48 yr old widow (from a maddeningly preventable condition) I stopped giving a damn about much of anything.
dunebuddy@reddit
49
paranoyed@reddit
I found out my give a fuck account went overdrawn around 35 46 now and I still have not gotten it back in the black.
Invasive-farmer@reddit
Slightly earlier than yours. But just by a couple years at most.
Junior_Statement_262@reddit
For me, it was probably around 7 or 8....still going strong.
Caunuckles@reddit
I'n 54. Hoping to retire before my bag of f**ks is empty.
gnome_saying77@reddit
45 is when I stopped caring about a lot of stuff. Very liberating.
Sensitive-Elk7093@reddit
After first marriage ended. 32/33 years old. A lot of bad stuff happened and I gave up.
wonderbeen@reddit
I don’t think I’ve ever played that DLC
HighJeanette@reddit
Cats-n-Chaos@reddit
My Give A Fuck meter went to complete 0 at 50
FatCatNoHat@reddit
In my mid to late 40s I have observed first true and wholesome signs of not giving a fuck. Over next several years it became a state of being similar to conducts given Zen. Very liberating - I thought before that o was there but it was false, more ignorance or simply carelessness but now at 55 I seriously don’t give a fuck. I still love some people, my companion animals, I enjoy life (well most of the time anyway) … I think 55 is the true age for full IDGF maturity.
ogbellaluna@reddit
i have been fresh outta fucks since feb 2016; i didn’t even make it to 46 before i ran out.
but, ohhh, the liberation!!
Severe_Performer_726@reddit
7/18/22 I was a month shy of my 52 birthday when the had my “moment of clarity” I’ve never been happier.
_x__Rudy__x_@reddit
About 5 years ago. I realized I can't fix everything, can't please everyone, and what others do doesn't concern me unless it encroaches on my life in a negative way. That leaves more good energy for those persons and things I care about.
Tight_Comparison_557@reddit
howardbagel@reddit
17
mrbaggy@reddit
Not necessarily a question of age. A question of money. But at 56 we have enough money to NGAF about a lot of things.
TwpMun@reddit
27
IDunnoWhatToPutHereI@reddit
I would say about 40. After I had a really shitty year of horrible things keep happening, I just stopped caring about anyone who isn’t my immediate family (or people who I am close to that are like family). I will still do what I am supposed to but I went from trying to make everyone happy to focusing on what we need, the rest of the world be damned.
Redkneck35@reddit
Im an empath, mine never did, but i do need to recharge my emotional batteries from time to time.
blaquepapilion@reddit
Definitely 55.
Alwaystiredandcranky@reddit
42ish here
HistoryGirl23@reddit
This year, 46
Aggravating_Smile556@reddit
Just kicked mine to the curb
Mikeachusetts@reddit
Stopped giving a damn at the ripe age of 32. Too many deaths in the family and grief around where I kind of stopped caring about trivial bullshit
Aggravating_Smile556@reddit
48
MaintenanceIcy4141@reddit
27
therealpookiechoo@reddit
50! I have survived so much that I just thought, "fuck it". I do my best and the rest can suck it.
Juanfartez@reddit
girlinanemptyroom@reddit
I think mine just started. I don't know what's happened this past few months with me, because I've always been a stick to the rule book when it comes to kindness. I'm not saying I'm not kind anymore, but lately I started a new philosophy and it's changing everything. I asked myself in all of my relationships, including work relationships, are they giving me the same thing that I am giving them. Are they going out of their way, like I am going out of mine? It's really been eye-opening. I've been exhausting myself to please people.
It all changed when I started asking myself that question. I also was diagnosed with heart failure recently, so maybe I'm starting not to give a damn myself.
blurtside@reddit
No more shits to give..55
JenniferJuniper6@reddit
Really early. Like 35. My life is so much less stressful now.
TXHaunt@reddit
I’m 45, and I can’t remember a time it worked. But then my memory isn’t the greatest either.
eatingganesha@reddit
it broke at 15 for me.
Expert-Hyena6226@reddit
Mine broke as soon as the divorce was finalized.
AquaLimeFresca@reddit
azchocolatelover@reddit
My give-a-damn started experiencing cracks in my late 30s. Developed more cracks when I went through the aftermath of 2 hurricane visits that destroyed 99% of the inside of my house, as well as my roof. No one really tells you about the joys of finding a contractor in a disaster zone, never mind one that you can trust. Or the joys of fighting your homeowners insurance company to pay out the entire claim after they signed off on it.
By the time I hit my mid-forties, my give-a-damn broke completely, and I have no desire to glue it back together.
Chipsky@reddit
35?
LostFlute@reddit
About the same age, here! It coincided with all of my kids being over 21, so it's possible that had something to do with it. I'm more content than ever and have a better relationship with my kids and spouse. It also coincided with losing both of my parents, so lots of big changes at once.
Ok-Asparagus-4044@reddit
For real? In Gen X, that dam broke when I was like 10
Quick-Reputation9040@reddit
13 or so…
No_Gap_2700@reddit
My "give a damn" died the same day my "you can fuck right off" was born. I seriously just no longer give a fuck about anything. Small things that used to be what kept me motivated....most recently buying pit tickets to see NIN in a month....stoked about, but can't help but feel like some fuckery will occur between now and then that will ruin. Life, work, and people have done this to me. No forgiveness.
JWStaples@reddit
Mine was broken upon installation. Several recalls and they failed to resolve the issue.
Would throw a reboot joke in there but these are “sensitive” times.
Decent-Inevitable-50@reddit
34 it started, 41 it was off to the races, 49 was the straw that broke the camels back and now it's not "give-a-damn" but a full fledged don't-give-a-f###
typicalamericanbasta@reddit
It was waining already but when my wife died three years ago it shattered completely and I'm ok with it. I was 51and looking back, it's kind of scary how different I am now, but it's ok. I'm good with it all.
godleymama@reddit
Mine was 55 as well! Now, I'm 57, so I am cruising comfortably in my IDGAF stage.
jordy1971@reddit
50
TravelerMSY@reddit
About whom? That’s what changed for me,
IminLoveWithMyCar3@reddit
I’m 59 and mine broke so long ago I don’t even remember. Maybe 9? 😂
Accomplished_Ad2599@reddit
54 and I’m not there yet.
ManintheMT@reddit
Same. Frankly I wish I could unlock the dgaf, I think my mental health would benefit. Mostly I have trouble balancing my attitude regarding my stressful job. Wish I could coast out the last several years but I am having trouble doing that.
venkopivo@reddit
Mine broke VERY recently @ 57.
vinsalducci@reddit
My “G.A.S” (Give a Sh!t) meter has been on empty for some time.
TropicFreez@reddit
Back in my mid-twenties, but that was due to a health issue beyond my control. Mid-fifties now.
No_Yam5124@reddit
Trying to not get there completely myself. Some stuff I have to care about, some stuff I have to stick with the “I don’t care or give a damn”🧐
NoDiscounts4u@reddit
its almost enlightening
mazopheliac@reddit
About 12.
Objective-Holiday597@reddit
I’ve got no fucks to give but my give a damn broke in my early 40’s.
wetwater@reddit
47ish. If I had a teenager he would be mortified to be seen in public with what I'm wearing, and I wouldn't particularly care.
Clothing seems to be the biggest thing I've stopped giving a shit about.
Sufficient_Stop8381@reddit
This year when I turned 50. I was always kinda DGAF but took my career and job seriously, until this year, after almost 26 years at one company, 2 months after turning 50, they were like “we’re doing a corporate restructuring and we don’t need you anymore” no reason given and it’s an at will employment state. I know the reason, age, but they’re smart enough to not say it. They’ve been doing this for the past few years at the corporate office, punting the old pre-spin employees who were there before the corporate spinoff and current executives, a few here and there, so it’s not noticeable. All over 50. 26 years of loyal work, overtime, staying on top of things, for nothing. Loyalty means absolutely nothing anymore and I’ll never have loyalty to another company again. I found another gig pretty quick, about 2 months, albeit a lower level. But I stopped giving af about my career. Just do the expected work and clock off.
ONROSREPUS@reddit
UpOrDownItsUpToYou@reddit
Right around age 46
Ksan_of_Tongass@reddit
In 1985, I was 12. That's when I realized that adults were just as dumb as kids, so I lost all respect for them.
The_Mujujuju@reddit
I was 12.
deserttitan@reddit
40.
unsurewhatiteration@reddit
Shit, I was an empty husk by the age of 25.
Honeybee71@reddit
51
whats1more7@reddit
For me it was Covid and I was 49. I run a home daycare and was used to bending over backwards for the kids and their parents. When Covid hit, all of my families except one disappeared off the face of the earth after about the first month. One sent me $50 to ‘help out’ while I was closed. But I wasn’t closed because the one family who kept in contact needed care because they were both hospital workers.
So when families started wanting childcare again, I started enforcing my rules. Sick kid? Send him home. Late pick up? Enjoy your $50 late pick up fee. Call me Sunday night because you suddenly decided you did need care TOMORROW after not hearing a word from you in 6 months. Nope, sorry I don’t have space.
My quality of life has increased tenfold since I started standing up for myself.
raf_boy@reddit
About what other people (who I don't care about) think? About 5 years ago.
About people I care about? Still running strong.
BeerWench13TheOrig@reddit
About the same for me. When perimenopause hit me, everything else just became more “whatever” than it had ever been. However, I care greatly about my family and friends, so I give a damn how they’re feeling and what they think of me. Fortunately, I’m surrounded by mostly chill people who are judgy, so I can just be myself.
mlgbt1985@reddit
Care about my family the most (includes my dog). Don’t really care about work, just trying to hang on 6-7 more years. Care about my faith, my personal well being and interests.
hdckurdsasgjihvhhfdb@reddit
My dog is the exception to all of our generation’s stereotypical aloofness because she is da bestest chonk everest in this whole wide world.
itwillmakesenselater@reddit
Be the person your dog thinks you are
Ok_Tanasi1796@reddit
Best comment of the day right here👆🏼
Ok_Tanasi1796@reddit
I had a massive mistake so I’ve got longer than you. Probably until I’m dead, but at least I won’t be bored.
raf_boy@reddit
Right there with you (though I got 12 years).
I love (and respect) my dog more than a lot of people.
SQWRLLY1@reddit
100%
AutoSpiral@reddit
48 and it still hasn't
harley_hot_wheelz@reddit
Started at 40 and had kept on going. 49 currently.
No-Day-5964@reddit
I wasn’t really born with one. It’s almost as if in my embryonic phase I was aware I’d be doing life with minimal support from anyone.
bobthenob1989@reddit
Right around 53.
hdckurdsasgjihvhhfdb@reddit
My bullshit filler got clogged a few years into life as a paramedic. I never bothered to rinse it out or replace it
Environmental-Post15@reddit
I was 36 when it snapped for good. I had been in a dark place for a few months (years?) and came home to find my now ex hooking up with some dude from her job. Don't get it twisted. She'd never been loyal. I just lacked a spine for 12 years. But I had finally had enough. I knew I deserved better than that. Wanted better than that. And told her as much (very loudly and very demeaningly). Got myself into therapy and learned how to be selfish and set boundaries. It's amazing how life turns around when you don't base your personal happiness on other's opinion of you
Klutzy-Spend-6947@reddit
Well, I’m 49 right now so….
GrandArchmage@reddit
I think my "No fucks left to give" stage started around age 34 and fully culminated when I was 42.
saraht1993@reddit
The day I was born.
d3amoncat@reddit
I (55) worked in a wags pharmacy all thru covid, the ad/HD medication shortage, the pain medication shortage and the ozempic shortage. I lost my give a fuck some time ago.
1234Veda@reddit
59 !!
StargazerOmega@reddit
For work and slowing down, 51 after my partner had a life threatening injury in the hospital for 6 months, then I got crappy health prognosis. For most other things, I never really gave a shit about what people expect me to do or what they think.
Hiker615@reddit
Early 50s. Led to my retirement at 56. I couldn't imagine having to keep working to retire in my 60s. I gave up what would have been good money, but you reach a point where time and freedom matters more than money.
VerityLGreen@reddit
It’s been a process. Age 32 I figured out other people are often the problem. People who act like they have it all together generally don’t. A know-it-all is usually just an ignoramus with confidence.
Early 40s and Zoloft helped me, not stop caring, but start to decide what I do and don’t need to choose to care about. Other people’s opinions? Thbbbt. Family, community, making the world a better place? Yes indeed :)
Technical_Chemistry8@reddit
In 2002, so age 33.
Wide-Form-7865@reddit
Couldn’t give a bollix
neckcadaver@reddit
My fck bucket is empty and I have no more fcks to give. 50 yrs and free
Wide-Form-7865@reddit
45
theswanwife@reddit
48
zimblewitz_0796@reddit
43 or 44, I'm 49 about to be 50.
stubbornbodyproblem@reddit
DrShankensteinMD@reddit
Mid-30's, but I was a punk/metal kid that spent a lot of time being messed with and I grew a thick skin.
chrisproglf@reddit
Mid to late twenties when i realized it was everyman for themselves.
dog4cat2@reddit
Pretty sure the "give-a-damn" generations was deleted in utero.
shadypines33@reddit
Low-Anxiety2571@reddit
40
Boomer79NZ@reddit
Same.
big_daug6932@reddit
About 6 years ago when I turned 50.
Ok-Explanation-9208@reddit
Ah yes, the “Fuck It” button. Been hitting that one off and on for almost a decade. I’m now 55 and I’ve been on that attitude for pretty much the last 4-5 years. Covid just ate up all my fucks so I got no more to give.
leungadon@reddit
About 40 I mostly stopped caring about what other people thought of me. So liberating
hidperf@reddit
Mine was in my early 40s. And I remember how it felt like this giant weight was lifted off my shoulders.
I always tell my younger friends about it, because it's life-changing and something to look forward to.
keltsbeard@reddit
I'd say..... sometime in the late 90s
gottaeatnow@reddit
At 49/50 I stopped giving a damn what other people think of me. Hopefully I still give a damn about the stuff that matters. Hopefully.
lovebeinganasshole@reddit
The year I hit puberty, so 13.
NegScenePts@reddit
Some time in my late 40s. 52 now.
PilotKnob@reddit
About 45 or so. And when it went, it went utterly and completely.
My give a shit meter is flat out broken.
Bookem25@reddit
I retire in 14 months of 30 years on the job. I’ll have to continue working but it’ll be mindless work and not law related. I’d say these last 6 months is when it kicked in. The amount of incompetence at the high level lately has made me just say do my 8 and rotate.
Alternative-Meat4587@reddit
Sometime in middle school.
joeythemouse@reddit
TemperatureTop246@reddit
51.. so within the last year.
SERVEDwellButNoTips@reddit
My Give-a-Fuk done Fuked Off!
put_simply@reddit
I thought the overriding tenet of GenX was not giving a shit about the things that don't matter?
Grand_Taste_8737@reddit
I have hit 55 yet, but my "give-a-damn" broke about a decade ago. I only worry about what I can control.
TX-Pete@reddit
17?
FROG123076@reddit
At 43, maybe even before that.
Emergency-Prompt-@reddit
About 45 my NGAF kicked-in. Before that I worried about a lot of things lol. Now it’s sort of like F it let’s see what happens.
tk2old@reddit
i think i made it to 56... been giving no fucks since
JollyGiant573@reddit
19 when college was the same as highschool. Go-to class take a test and get a piece of paper. Passed on that.
Lilredh4iredgrl@reddit
starksfergie@reddit
I turn 55 in two months and making my final "don't give a fuck" as I will change jobs hopefully for the last time (mercifully I'm in a field where I'm too desired these days, so finding another job in the new year won't be too hard and if it is, oh well, extended break)
el_smurfo@reddit
Mine has always been mostly broken, but I've lost most of the fear of expressing it. Makes for a nicer work/life balance and generally simpler life.
firewifegirlmom0124@reddit
Around 35 my filter broke. Around 40 my “give-a-damn” busted. I now do what I want and say what I want (politely for the most part) life is too short to pretend
fivefootmommy@reddit
Wow, yours lasted a long time!
Entropy847@reddit
Appropriately, at 60.
Familiar_Excuse_9086@reddit
I can't recall the exact year but I was in my late 30's .
cirkis@reddit
40
pax_omnibus1@reddit
Mid thirties. I became apathetic towards everything. The years following I became stronger in my convictions that I should only look out for myself and my family. I just want to live a quiet and happy life and not be bothered by the world’s and other peoples problems.
im2snarky@reddit
I have to be honest with you, I don’t believe I ever had one! My friends are always afraid to comment that they know me in groups where my name is mentioned… they never know if the person speaking is going love or hate me. There is no in between for me. Because, I don’t care what anyone thinks of me and my decisions. They don’t pay my bills!
73DodgeDart@reddit
This is the old man superpower. The ability to not care is so liberating. I care about my family, my REAL friends and my faith. Nothing else warrants worrying about. The crazy thing is that this has been true my whole life but I only started to believe it about 5 years ago. Is this what they call wisdom? I think so…
funsk8mom@reddit
The second I became a mom and had to deal with medical staff blowing off concerns and later teachers and school administrators being absolute A-holes. The second you become an advocate for your kids, all I don’t give a damns go out the window while trying to control your mouth so you don’t tell someone to F off.
chriskbrown50@reddit
I am 57 - somewhere in the last 2 years.
TheReallyAngryOne@reddit
I worked at gas stations in bad areas for too long. My give a darn, wtf, and what again broke at around 35. It has been replaced with go F yourself, those fers, and STFU GTFO.
DeezDoughsNyou@reddit
Now 54, but it just happened within the last year. JDGAF anymore about anything except the truly meaningful stuff, my wife, my kids and my friends... And some family members : )
Wild_Tea_2724@reddit
Cancer scare. I've been a people pleaser push over my whole life. That scare turned me into Peter from Office Space after he was hypnotized:) it hasn't been popular with everyone in my life, I don't care.
AnnaF721@reddit
I’d say 50 was the year it all went to shit and I stopped caring.
Doc-Milsap@reddit
I’m pretty sure mine broke at 45. I had been in a relationship with this woman for 7 years who had a fierce temper and one day I got fed up and told her to leave and she did and I never saw her or talked to her again. I will never tolerate anything or anyone taking away my peace again. I don’t even get mad in traffic since then either.
_Rebel_Scum_77@reddit
Straight up 50. I had a wonderful birthday experience traveling in Toronto and Montréal for my 50th. When I got home to Seattle, I had some how shed my fucks to give skin. Thus having no more fucks to give. I'm sure the Citalopram helps too.
Oriencor@reddit
It’s been my mantra since Freshman year in high school 1985…
notguiltybrewing@reddit
Never gave a damn. Isn't that the Gen X way?
Sallydog24@reddit
Somewhere in my mid 40s
MorningBrewNumberTwo@reddit
People pleasing is ancient history. Now I couldn’t care less and sometimes blurt out blunt responses without editing for diplomacy. 🙄
feelingbutter@reddit
Mine is on a pendulum, when I go to one extreme I get anxious that I've over/under corrected and then start to go to the other side. I'm trying to find a damn balance.
Muadeeb@reddit
For me, it was 10/7/23, when I saw the world turn against me and other jews. Now, if some white girl tries to lecture me about what Judaism means or any oppressor/oppressed idiocy, I tell them exactly what I think of them.
Mguidr1@reddit
Why do moms want to give all our stuff away? I’m a beekeeper and gave my mom a jar of honey yesterday. My thanks? She asked for more jars so she could give them away to aunts, etc. I said what are they willing to trade me for the honey? She snapped, “They’re family, so you should give them some”. This arrangement always goes one way, with me doing all the giving.
lottieslady@reddit
35
Dead_Inside50@reddit
45
Embarrassed_Wrap8421@reddit
Mydnight69@reddit
22, I'm pretty sure. Ever since then, folks have been confusing my apathy with confidence. Fuck all of them. Born 11.79 if you're wondering.
More people need to be like this.
Plastic-Ad-5171@reddit
I lost my give a damn around 30. Divorced, broke, no prospects, and just stopped caring about anything. Worked enough to pay the bills.
OtherwiseLab1115@reddit
Go to @justbeingmelani on Instagram and join the We Do Not Care Club!!!
LandlockedCajun@reddit
I beat cancer alone last year after a divorce. GaD is dead and gone. I made it to 48 this year.
Consistent_Line_1043@reddit
50
floppy_breasteses@reddit
I gave too many shits for too long. I gave my shits to people who didn't appreciate them, respect that I cared, and refused or spit on all my shits. So in my mid 40s I finally said, "fine. Fuck all y'all. Sort your own shit out. I care about me and my small circle of friends and family. Everyone else, out of the pool".
mzamour@reddit
I'm almost there I'm 46... each year there's more I don't give a damn about 🤣🤣🤣🤷🏽♀️👀😬
B52fortheCrazies@reddit
November 5th, 2024
Moody_GenX@reddit
Mine hit me in my 40s.
Chrispr30@reddit
Mr-Snarky@reddit
49, after. Oh my parents had passed away,
Natural_King2704@reddit
_TallOldOne_@reddit
Wait? I was supposed to give a damn?
Oops.
OldBanjoFrog@reddit
46
SometimesUnkind@reddit
Pretty sure I ran of fucks when I was 7.
pinktwigz@reddit
I didn’t run out at 7. But that was the age when the bucket of fucks started to empty out. My parents got divorced and I realized I was pretty much going to be doing this life thing alone/not much direction.
YoureSooMoneyy@reddit
Tough kid but amen!
kansaikinki@reddit
I've No More Fucks To Give
sfdsquid@reddit
It depends on the thing. It still works sometimes.
death91380@reddit
I'm 45 and I ran out of fucks a couple years ago.
_HOBI_@reddit
HeavyGoose8183@reddit
58
Beneficial_Trip3773@reddit
I was born without that part.
mjh8212@reddit
40 I just stopped caring. I didn’t want drama I didn’t want chaos I didn’t want people coming to me with their drama and chaos I wanted peace. At this time I’d had two chronic pain conditions for a while and was managing just fine. My kids were far away I was basically on my own. I realized when I was having a bad day everyone wouldn’t let me just vent but when they had problems I had to listen. I also met my fiance at this time. He is amazing. While we were together I started getting arthritis diagnosis and my mobility is affected. I became a homebody only time I want to go out is with my fiance. He understands when I’m feeling good or bad. I just don’t care anymore I’m taking care of myself for once in my life. My kids need me I’m there I will always be there but this is also my time. I was pregnant and raising kids young so I think it’s okay.
Slim_Chiply@reddit
I can't really remember anymore. At least a decade ago. I'm 60 in a couple months.
It didn't stop all at once. Slipped away but by bit. Like peeling and onion. Finally there was nothing left
_Happy_Camper@reddit
Dunno…. about 16 I’d say
porkchopexpress-1373@reddit
50ish. Just realized one day everyone except my kids are just full of shit and not worth my effort or time. I still socialize and function like a normal person and am polite but I don’t go out of my way for anyone else anymore unless I want to. It’s a great feeling. I wish I could’ve bestowed this superpower upon myself at a much earlier age, like 12 or 13. Probably would’ve saved myself a lot of heartache.
Tokogogoloshe@reddit
Well, the give-a-damn for shit that doesn't matter broke while I was in ICU at 49. And very few things matter. I can count them on my one hand with fingers to spare.
JosKarith@reddit
Dude I'm genX. I was born not giving a fuck.
aceholeman@reddit
2010.
thirtyone-charlie@reddit
About 14
Smile-Cat-Coconut@reddit
I go in and out of caring. When I don’t care I feel safe. When I do care, it feels meaningful
furbalve03@reddit
Mid 40s.
stantheman1976@reddit
48M
Not sure if I have an exact time frame. I've always been one of those people who didn't care much about what other people think of me. I care what my family, close friends, and employer think about me. For anyone outside that circle I really just don't care.
I think as I got into my 40s it became moreso that attitude. I went through therapy in my late 30s to save my marriage. I had a ton of unchecked issues and needed to get myself straight to be a better husband and father.
As I sit here at my age my circle has gotten extremely small. Friends and family pass on or drift away. The people who are still here with me are important enough that I'll make an effort to keep them in my life.
Duran518@reddit
I amaze myself sometimes. The speed it takes me to switch from Strawberry Shortcake to Teresa Guidice is Olympic!
linuxgeekmama@reddit
My ability to give a fuck was a casualty of the Covid era.
FlippingPossum@reddit
Around 45, when perimenopause started. My poor husband is taking it well. I started on Saturday because he was loud after I woke up from a nap.
I'm already on Prozac for PMDD. :/
1Mthrowaway@reddit
My "give a damn" increasingly broke as our net worth increased. By the time I was in my late 40's I was on full coast mode and ultimately retired at 53 once we hit our numbers. I give even less of a damn now!
MistressDamned@reddit
PabstBlueRiver@reddit
I walked out of my office job one day and never looked back.
Did land a new job in an entirely different field doing something entirely new months later, but did need the reset.
DonnyDiddledIvanka@reddit
I'm the same age as well as is my best friend from college who I still talk to multiple times a week. We discuss this often. It's the adult version of senioritis and we have it BAD.
SeaToe9004@reddit
Absolutely the same year as OP. I am 59 now and it has been 4 years of complete bliss! Only wish I could have afforded for it to break about 10 years sooner.
Good_Habit3774@reddit
I don't think I was born with a give a damn but since I slightly did in highschool I'm going to say. 16 for me and now I show kindness to all I like and nothing to who I don't.
Bug_Calm@reddit
28.
Sea-Morning-772@reddit
I would say 54-55.
funktopus@reddit
Middle school.
mrspalmieri@reddit
I'll be 51 very soon and I'm still a first class Type A control freak. I wish mine would kick in at least a little
Squigglepig52@reddit
It was a pretty low level of caring before last year - then my younger sister died a couple months after my Dad, and Mom is already gone. Hard to care about anything - except my "new" dog. Him I care about.
geese_moe_howard@reddit
Bereavement will do that.
jazzdabb@reddit
A loyal pet is the best reason to do ANYTHING.
fagan_jay78@reddit
46
jimheim@reddit
I'm not sure I ever had a give-a-damn. If I did, it broke around age 10.
RustedRelics@reddit
57 or so. And it seems to get stronger with each passing month.
Gloomy_Narwhal_4833@reddit
I think I was born that way and it has only gotten worse or better depending on perspective. I have less than 10 people in the entire world that I actually care about at all, my wife and kids and my siblings. Beyond those mentioned everyone else can kindly go away,please. My wife makes up two-fold for my lack of emotion or give a shit, so it worked out.
badgerbot9999@reddit
I’m way ahead of you, I started a long time ago and I’m almost 50. There’s nothing irresponsible about worrying about your own shit. I’m very responsible, I’m just very cautious about adding more responsibilities to my plate. Having too many responsibilities that stress you out is irresponsible. By not giving a shit about other shit I can preserve my own shit. Wisdom
mike___mc@reddit
Like, do y’all just not give a shit about anything?
Don’t vote? Don’t care? Wanna watch the world burn?
YoureSooMoneyy@reddit
That’s not what it means for me.
I think everyone’s “give a damn” is nuanced and specific to themselves.
dethb0y@reddit
To quote the excellent K.Flay (sadly not a GenX, but close):
It's been a long time since i gave a damn in any but a purely academic sense about almost anything.
Happy_Dog1819@reddit
notJoeKing31@reddit
Odd-Edge-2093@reddit
50M. Still have that give a damn about work. Everything else, about 46.
Rambling-Holiday1998@reddit
June 16 2015. I was 41 days shy of my 50th birthday. Something happened that day made me say "F this," and give up. My give-a-damn has been busted since that day.
Ok_Tanasi1796@reddit
I actually still have that one intact. But…my give-a-shitter busted in ‘16 & just isn’t repairable. I know. I tried up to age 46. A replacement from China is too expensive now thanks to inflation & tariffs. Oh well🤷🏼♂️
5uck3rpunch@reddit
I'm 54 & I'm really close...
vanwhisky@reddit
If it’s in my control, I’ll put in maximum effort to make it work. That’s what I get paid to do and how my personality works. I’m not about to roll over yet, even if it lands me in HR.
ZebraBorgata@reddit
I no longer waste time or energy thinking about anything that’s out of my control. I do all I can in the present moment to make the right decisions and prepare best I can. Ultimately I don’t sweat the future. What will be, will be. I just roll with it.
AccomplishedCash3603@reddit
48, but my temper still flares and I still drop rapid fire F bombs. Hoping that subsides after 50.
whatevertoad@reddit
For sure 49
YoureSooMoneyy@reddit
I was about 24. I stopped caring what anyone else’s opinion was and in particular their opinion about my life. I also don’t care what other people do with their lives.
It’s not about caring in general. I care about people and situations deeply. I do not care to educate others anymore. I do not care to defend myself. Ever. 2+2=5? Enjoy.
Every year it gets stronger. I’m 53 and I truly do not care. It’s freeing. Your life is much more calm and your own.
Unable-Salt-446@reddit
57
MeatofKings@reddit
Reddit is filled with stories about people who suffer angst because some idiot is unhappy with them. I feel very fortunate that by my middle twenties there was a very short list of people whose opinions I care about and respect. And some of those are limited to specific circumstances where I respect their point of view, such as work or raising children. Life is so much better when you Idiot-Proof yourself.
cometbar@reddit
I lost mine at 53 after watching a program on the history of this planet, we’ve had 5 major extinction events over millions and millions of years, one mammals almost died off. I still recycle, compost make the bed (most times) and most importantly be good to your people and yourself.
Defiant_Property_336@reddit
pretty sure i just hit my "fuck it fifties" at 52 - do my job, pay me and the rest is fng nonsense i want no part of
Worth_Event3431@reddit
55 here, too. Same for me
AffectionateLie6252@reddit
My you can eat a bag dicks was started in the 90's I don't give a damn what y'all think. It's hard for myself to personally give a fuck about anything or anyone that doesn't give it back. Just my thoughts. Have a blessed day X'rs 🙏 Love y'all
armorabito@reddit
I realized at 53 (M56) after my brother in law and my father passed within a year of each other that nothing else is that urgent. Live love laugh. Everything else is there to serve these goals.
Designer-Mirror-7995@reddit
5 years old.
DeeDleAnnRazor@reddit
Now, about to be 60. Busted.
MotherOf4Jedi1Sith@reddit
50, after my divorce. Never gonna give a damn ever again.
KindaNewRoundHere@reddit
About 3 “who cares? Not me” has always been my catch phrase
CqwyxzKpr@reddit
9-11-2001 @ 29
ShowMeYourHappyTrail@reddit
Uh, I don't think I ever had one. Not giving a damn has helped me not let a lot of childhood trauma not affect me so I keep it well polished.
Affectionate-Cry4216@reddit
I’m not quite there yet but started when I got cancer at 48. That give one perspective and reflection.
Objective-Pen-1780@reddit
51 exactly. I stopped giving a shit on my birthday this year. So liberating.
ZepherK@reddit
I can retire with reduced pension at 53. Full pension at 58.
I am anticipating “negotiating from a position of f you” to kick in between those years.
Sad_Evidence5318@reddit
That's the way I was raised so never have
brendhano@reddit
53
Roomoftheeye@reddit
About 15/16
joelav@reddit
My give-a-damn isn't broken, but around 30 it became selective. I don't care about anything I have no direct impact over. Sounds kind of shitty but it's whatever. Politics, world events, natural disasters not in my area, second hand drama (aka social media), world news, etc. Don't care. Don't talk to me about it, don't ask for my opinion, don't expect me to care.
I still give a damn about my immediate friends and families lives and events, but outside of that I just don't have the cycles to spend. Or maybe just don't want to. Either way.
hopeinnewhope@reddit
55 here as well. I couldn’t care less about things that once seemed important. That said, last year I had a neck and lower facelift because I hate wearing makeup. Worth every penny and I look refreshed.
Status_Entrepreneur4@reddit
45 here
NedsAtomicDB@reddit
In 2020, during the pandemic, watching my husband of 20 years waste away from cancer during the first wave.... yeah. I'm fucking done with giving a shit these days.
IndependentShelter92@reddit
50 for me.
Infamous_Towel_5251@reddit
About 2019? So I was 44.
My give a fuck started smoking and sputtering before that, though. It just finally quit about then.
NicInNS@reddit
Mid-40s I’d say. It’s lovely.
Gatos_2023@reddit
this year - I’m 49 turning 50 in the fall. I don’t give a fck about anything, and it’s so freeing!!
_53-@reddit
“Give-damn” is a higher brain function. When this goes away it’s cognitive decline, most will deny it who feel threatened, but it’s true. I know my degrading brain is in full effect with little kids when we go out to eat! Can’t stand those little shits anymore! My memory is going too. It happens to us all! 49 here
No_Neighborhood_632@reddit
Somewhere between 40 and 50 [also 55]. It was either subtle or gradual. I just noticed one day.
ApatheistHeretic@reddit
ionV4n0m@reddit
just before my 44th birthday.
DreadGrrl@reddit
Around 24, I think.
mama146@reddit
Me too. About 55.
labontefan69@reddit
Almost 60 and still working on it 😉
tinygiggs@reddit
I was not gifted with a hugh give-a-damn at birth. It seemed to have broken around 2020/21. It's extremely touchy now. Mostly only works at certain times, for certain people/causes. And I don't give a damn to fix it.
marathonmindset@reddit
45
AdvokatefortheDevil@reddit
15
DJ40andOVER@reddit
Early 56 or late 55. I turned 58 this past April.
KptKreampie@reddit
I can no longer recall when my fucks dun runith run out. Probably when the patriot act passed. Then again this morning when the democrat and republican leaders went silent on "Epstein had no list."
303FPSguy@reddit
Mine disappeared about 50.
Nggalai@reddit
Something like 2 weeks ago. Will be 50 in a couple of months.
NHBuckeye@reddit
At 52 when I discovered HRT.
travster23@reddit
Always has been astronaut.jpg
dr_snakeblade@reddit
49, but I had taken so much abuse at that point. I wish that I walked away sooner.
90sGuyKev@reddit
Sometimes in my mind twenties I believe
ithinkiknowstuphph@reddit
I think I’ve always been like that but when I started meditating it increased and I had no time for stupid petty bullshit (gossip and such). Meditation kind of made me more of a dick. A chill dick who is in the moment though
cooleybird1975@reddit
13.
Vermonter-in-Exile@reddit
A while ago. Been working customer service/phones for a long time.
International-Mix425@reddit
I'm bipolar and stopped caring what people thought in my 30's. I'm now 56 and care even less.
But what has also happened is I don't listen to my wife of 33 years.
I've closed my self off emotionally and physically. And I'm too far gone to change.
Secure-Astronomer-33@reddit
I was 47.
primeweevil@reddit
My sow of fucks to give, died at 50.
wmnoe@reddit
Honestly I never really had much of a give a crap about what other people think of me. And I'm not sure that I ever had a give-a-damn anyway....but if I did, it was definitely driven out of me by my ex-wife during our breakup in 2016.
cddelgado@reddit
Mine broke down at 25. And it was the best thing that could have happened. It made me the successful person I am today.
rahbahboston@reddit
About what other people think about me, or do? I gave up keeping up with joneses and caring about whether people like me or not in my late 40's. I'm not trying to make friends or enemies, but I'm not changing myself to please others and sacrificing who I am.
I still give a damn about the quality of my work and things I do. I have always told my son, if you take the time to do it, then take the time to do it right.
neanderthalman@reddit
Oh, eleven. Maybe twelve. Hard to say. Kinda foggy.
Lord_of_Entropy@reddit
I'll be 60 in a week. My give-a-damn broke anent my job last year. I'm just marking time to retirement.
AussieBelgian@reddit
Early to mid 40s.
Magica78@reddit
25
UncuriousCrouton@reddit
I think it was in my mid 40s or so, although my give-a-damn is barely hanging on. Hard to discuss this without going into politics.
LongDuckDong1974@reddit
51 and I think it started shortly after 50 for me
mj6174@reddit
Edward_the_Dog@reddit
For me it was at 52.
bigkat5000@reddit
58 and real damn close.
r4d1229@reddit
Mine broke this year at 60.