According to a palliative nurse was close to many people on their deathbeds, the ten most common regrets shared by people nearing death were:
1. I wish I didn’t hold back my feelings.
Coming in at first place is the wish that we were more honest about our feelings. This is something most of us can relate to every day. How many times do we choose not to say something, or to say the thing which will cause the least disruption even if it’s not true? Bottling up feelings can lead to mental and physical illness. This will only haunt you at the end of your life.
2. I wish I lived in the now.
More than anything else, it seems most of us have issues with living in the NOW. We often look back at the past, wishing we could relive it, or we dream of a future that hasn’t come yet. Either way, we’re disconnected from the present, which means we’re never fully living in the moment.
3. I wish I didn’t worry so much.
We spend A LOT of our lives worrying. We don’t feel how quickly life goes by until we wake up one day as a 75 year old. Then, we begin to see how small our worries are.
4. I wish I cared less of what others think.
A common regret people have at the end of their lives is not living their own life. Instead of following their own desires and beliefs, they conformed to the expectations and values of others. Deep, lasting regrets often arise from making poor, significant life choices.
5. I wish I took better care of myself.
You only have one body, mind, and spirit, so take care of all of them now to ensure you can enjoy life even in your older age.
6. I wish I lived for myself more.
This would mean to live life the way you want NOW, and don’t wait for anyone’s permission.
7. I wish I didn’t work so hard.
In the end, it’s not the money you earned or the career milestones you achieved that you’ll remember, but the people you connected with and how they influenced your life. You’ll cherish the memories and the laughter shared with loved ones. While work is necessary for survival, don’t let it consume you to the point where you neglect to cultivate relationships and a life beyond your job.
8. I wish I didn’t take life for granted.
Many people actually take their life for granted, and don’t appreciate all the little things around them that make up their environment. Even if you don’t have much in life, you could at least say your thanks for having the basics that the universe provides you with.
Have an attitude of gratitude, and it will come back to you tenfold.
9. I wish I stayed in touch.
People at the end of their lives realized they took friends for granted and regret losing touch with friends and wished they had put more effort into keeping in touch. Friends help us get through life, and stick with us through the ups and downs. Life may take you in different directions, but it doesn’t have to alienate you from them. Pick up the phone and chat with them for a bit; you will never regret reaching out.
10. I wish I was happier.
Life moves quickly, so why waste it focusing on every small thing to complain about? Happiness is free, improves your health, makes life more rewarding, and fosters positive relationships. On the other hand, unhappiness actually costs more in the long run and can even contribute to serious health problems. Our mental, emotional, and physical well-being depend on our mindset, so to start living a better life, simply shift your perspective.
Share your thought in the comment section.
