Many people try to live by the motto of ‘live without regret’ but it is almost inevitable that someone will regret at least something from their past. In some cases, that regret can make it very difficult to keep moving forward with their life. They dwell on the past and suffer the regret daily.
In order to live a life of progress and growth one must learn to forgive one’s self and look towards the future rather than be consumed by regrets of the past. By not spending as much time thinking about material objects we’re freed up to think about, and act on the more substantial, meaningful parts of life. This is the perfect time to finally forgive yourself.
1. Places you never went
Many people neglected opportunities to travel while they were financially and physically able. It’s time to get off your duff and see what’s out there. Even on a budget there are many fascinating and often free things to explore in your community, in your state, or across the seas. Just because you didn’t go before doesn’t mean you can’t get out there now.
2. Jobs you didn’t take
Consider that the job you regret not getting (or going for) might not have been right for you. If your gut instinct was to refuse the job at the time, or if too many things pointed to you not going after it the job at the time then trust that you made the best decision you could at the time. If you still have career regrets, now is the time to consider what you really want to do with your work life and find a way to get it done.
3. Money you wasted
Money regrets are often one of the biggest regrets anyone has throughout their lifetime. In order to move on from the mistakes you’ve made before, you have to make a commitment to not letting history repeat itself. Start today by getting your finances in order and on the right path. Complacency about money matters will only prolong your regret. Take the Get Out of Debt Pledge and get on track this very minute!
4. Time you wasted
Whether your regret wasting years of your life or just the few hours you could have been more productive, you can stop the insanity and get serious about how you spend your time. There are a lot of distractions out there that can cause you to procrastinate.
Start limiting your TV time, your computer time, and the other elements of your life that are guaranteed time wasters and instead seize the day every day. (You might like this post: Dramatically Increase the Quality of Your Life)
5. Friends you hurt
Hurting people you love can be devastating especially if you can’t admit your role in the situation. If it is too late to make up with the person you hurt, make a commitment to practicing more kindness in your life to prevent another hurtful situation. Learn to walk away from the drama that is so prevalent in society today. We all know, life is too short.
6. Friendships lost
It can be difficult to lose your best friend over the years. People grow and change and may longer be the right fit into each other’s lives. If you lost a friendship that you regret, try reaching out to see what happens. If the other person does not respond, respect that. Work on being a better friend to those still in your life.
7. Love you lost
Love is often one regret people find it impossible to get over. Sadly, many people end up with additional regrets while mourning the loss of a past love (infidelity, lies). You must be willing to accept the life you have created for yourself and realize what you do have to be grateful for every day. If the road to rekindling a relationship are free and clear, don’t let fear or regret hold you back. Take the risk and see where love can take you.
8. Opportunities you missed
They say opportunity only knocks once so if you missed answering the door to an opportunity in the past, ask yourself what is stopping you from creating newer, better opportunities. Figure out why it is you passed up the chance the first time around and be honest with yourself.
Get over past regrets by searching for the next opportunity and going after it full force.
9. Family discord
Part of what makes up a family is the process of fighting and then forgiving. In some families the fighting seems unforgivable and many live years under the weight of a grudge. If you regret a long-lasting family squabble, be the first to make amends. Be prepared for what may result – good or bad. Rest easier knowing you did what you could to correct your mistakes. It’s sad to see or hear about families who get torn apart by seemingly stupid arguments. Don’t let your ego stand in the way.
10. Incomplete education
If you dropped out of school in the past, you may regret what you’ve missed out on by lacking the education you wanted. The good news is that in this day and age there are so many new ways to get educated, you can do better. Online courses, community colleges, and trade schools are much more accessible than in previous years. Contact the admissions office of the school you’ve been considering and get started on creating a better life for yourself.
11. Parenting mistakes
If you are a parent, there is likely at least one thing you regret about how you handled your kids. You may have one big regret (your child was seriously hurt when you weren’t paying attention) or a series of daily regrets (you lost your patience again!). Whatever the regret, know that no parent is perfect. Your family will love you for who you are. Get recommitted to spending quality time with them, listening actively, and doing what you have to in order to keep your family safe, healthy, and happy.