As human beings, we often get so caught up in our day-to-day routines that we forget to prioritize the things that truly matter in life. It’s only when we come face-to-face with the end of our journey that we start to reflect on the things we wish we had done differently. In fact, a nurse named Bronnie Ware who spent several years working in palliative care, caring for patients in the last weeks of their lives, wrote a book called "The Top Five Regrets of the Dying" based on her experiences. Here are those top five regrets and how those of us who are still alive can learn from them:
"I wish I had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me."
To avoid this regret, it’s important to take the time to reflect on your own values, interests, and goals, and to live a life that is authentic to you. It can be scary to go against the expectations of others, but the reward of living a life true to yourself is worth it.
"I wish I hadn't worked so hard”
To avoid this regret, it's important to prioritize your work-life balance. Make sure to set boundaries around your work hours, take breaks when you need them, and prioritize your relationships and hobbies outside of work. Remember that your career is only one part of your life, and it's important to find a balance that allows you to enjoy all aspects of your life.
"I wish I had the courage to express my feelings."
To avoid this regret, it's important to communicate your feelings openly and honestly with others. This doesn't mean that you have to be confrontational or hurtful, but rather that you should find ways to express your thoughts and feelings in a respectful and constructive way.
"I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends."
To avoid this regret, it's important to prioritize your relationships and make time for the people who matter most to you. This may mean scheduling regular phone calls or visits with friends and family, or finding ways to stay connected through social media or other means.
"I wish that I had let myself be happier."
To avoid this regret, it's important to focus on the things that truly make you happy, whether it's spending time with loved ones, pursuing a passion, or simply taking time to relax and enjoy life. Remember that happiness is a choice, and it's up to you to prioritize it in your life.
What is your biggest regret in life?
I have certainly had many unpleasant experiences in life: enormous financial setbacks, injuries and lingering pains, marital woes, professional frustration in two fields, et al. However, I believe in karma, and this carries over to things that either should not have happened or else should have happened but did not.
A character in the first novel of my series explains, "When people hurt you, always express your gratitude, for only the pain they give you can bring this cycle to a close."
If I have "regrets," it is only that it has taken me so long to learn that I have to let go of my regrets! They all relate to things that happened earlier. The challenge is to live in the moment, which means to let go of the imprisoning chains and suffocating ashes of a dead past. Learn from one's mistakes? Absolutely! Spend the rest of one's life brooding on them? Hell, no!
Thank you for this article.