Fantastic you were guided in this wisdom from such an early age.
I wonder if a long time ago that was my instinct too, but shoes (and very strict schools) were forced upon me and I quickly forgot? Perhaps that is how it is for many?
The ticket for me is my constantly hot feet. I have to sleep with them out of the covers at night and wearing shoes is incredibly uncomfortable after 15mins because of the ever growing heat. Strange though that I only noticed this five years ago! Anyway... better late than never ;)