I've been told one too many times that I am the epitome of an old soul. People tell me I dress, act and think like I'm from a much earlier time period, and I would be lying if I said I disagree. I'm always reading or writing, but if I'm not doing either of those, than I'm enjoying solitude and using it as time to reflect on my life and everything going on in it. One of my favorite authors who has had a strong influence on my writing over the years once left me with an indelible quote that is forever anchored in the back of my mind. He said,

"We all have souls of different ages"

-F. Scott Fitzgerald The Beautiful and Damned

Reading this sentence for the first time I felt like I was reading my own thoughts. He put it so simply, yet so delicately and my god did Fitzgerald have a way with words. So when I'm told I have an old soul, I take it to heart and embrace the self-actualization and expression I tend to reflect. If you experience these 15 signs, your soul is probably just as vintage.

1. You think about everything.

You find deeper meaning in your relationships and day to day interactions than most.

2. You spend most of your time reflecting.

You continually seek out better understandings and are extremely introspective about life.

3. You've always been more mature than people your age.

Even as a kid you thought the adult conversations were far more interesting than the kid's.

4. You enjoy the simple things.

A coffee date with a friend, a quiet morning to yourself reading the newspaper or cooking a great meal.

5. You have very little value when it comes to material items.

Because personal relationships and experiences are worth so much more than anything you could ever own.

6. You focus on self-actualization.

You find enjoyment out of self-expression through writing, art, music, or some other outlets.

7. You're sensitive.

And always trust you're first instinct.

8. You get caught up in certain decades for months at a time.

And all the art and history that comes with that period of time.

9. Strangers love opening up to you.

Something about you makes others want to simply spill their life story within just minutes of meeting you.

10. You're especially accepting.

You understand the importance of forgiveness, which is why your friends know they can tell you anything and you'll never judge them.

11. You appreciate the little things.

Because a hand written card means the world to you.

12. You like being alone.

People can be a handful sometimes.

13. You're spiritually inclined.

Sometimes it's easier to escape situations instead of facing them.

14. You see the bigger picture.

And you feel for everyone in your view.

15. You just feel old.

Because old souls have the strongest perception.