We are often quite careless about how we spend our time. It is only when something unexpected happens that we pause and reconsider our plans and daily routines. Am I on the right professional track? Is this the right person for me? Am I doing the right things? These are important questions and we’d better ask them now then when it’s too late for change.
It may be useful to keep an eye on what people usually regret doing or not doing at the end of their life.
1. Avoiding risks
If you prefer to play it by the rules, always choosing the safe options, there may come a time when you’d wish you took more risks. Being a good boy or girl will not probably be your most cherished accomplishment when a life review is due. Dare to be brave and don’t allow other people to determine the course of your life.
2. Worrying too much
Mark Twain once said: ”I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, most of which never happened.” Our fears are far too exaggerated to be idulged in. Find a more meaningful way to spend your days.
3. Working excessively
While work is necessary and important part of living, it should not be placed at its very center. When you near the end of your life, do you think it’s probable to look back and say: Wow, I’ve sent so many mails and wrote such wonderful minute reports, it makes my life complete? Or you’d rather wish to have traveled more and enjoyed your hobbies?
4. Hiding behind a mask
It is so much easier to be whoever other people want us to be. Not allowing to be seen however, is the sure road not only to loneliness but to regrets later in life. If our authentic and imperfect self remains forever hidden, we may die bitter and feeling that noone really knows who we are.
5. Giving up on love
The quality of our most important relationships is what leaves the deepest mark on our lives. It is inevitable to face some questions about the love we gave and received. Did I say ”I love you” often enough? Did I manage to apologize when I was wrong? Why didn’t I ask for a kiss? We most often regret the things we didn’t do, than those we did.
To cut the long story short, if you want to die happy and fulfilled: dream big, be yourself and love with your whole heart.
