8 Common Life Regrets You Don’t Have to Make

I have always been interested to read what the older generation regret, if anything, about their lives. I think the first thing that surprised me was that almost everyone always had regrets. Which is why I’ve put together these 8 common life regrets you don’t have to make.

Sure, there is the old saying that’s it’s better to regret something you’ve done, than something you haven’t. This needs to be taken with a pinch of sensibility, but there is some merit to this.

I have read many comments and lists of regrets. Most of them are quite sad to read, because they are all things that didn’t have to be. Yet, it’s a vicious circle between only knowing that when it’s too late, and not being able to change the past.

Which is why we can all benefit from the wisdom of others. We are all different and will have different regrets, wants, and experiences. But I have put together a list of the 8 more common reoccurring regrets that people always look back on.

I am almost positive there will be something in this list that hits a nerve with each and everyone reading this. Regardless of how old you are, and what stage of your life you’re in, it’s never too late to make amends.

8 Common Life Regrets You Don’t Have to Make

Spending Too Much Time Worrying

If I had a dollar for everyone I have heard say this…. Seriously, it’s hard not to worry, and we can easily worry about worrying. It’s so frustrating, but looking at people who have been around and worried a lot more than we have, it didn’t help.

Worry is something I worked on years ago. It’s difficult not to worry, it’s a normal human reaction. But if you are a worrier, and you know who you are. Don’t find yourself looking back and kicking yourself.

Not Showing Your Real Feelings to Those You Care About

Another tough one that affects a large section of the population. But that’s why it’s a common regret. It’s a tough one to break if you’re someone who hides their feelings. But it’s never too late to change, and you know you’re loved ones will be more than happy you do.

Be a little more thoughtful, tell your special someone, family, and friends you care about – that you care. It only takes a short message, or a little gift. If you appreciate someone, show them. The smallest of gestures go a long way, and you won’t look back in regret.

Caring Too Much about What Others Think of You

This is similar to worrying too much. When it’s all said and done it doesn’t matter what others think of you. Unless of course we are talking about your family and friends. But this regret is aimed at just the general population.

You don’t have to impress everyone when you enter a room. It takes a lot of energy that you could be focusing on more productive ventures.

Not following a Passion

This one makes me kick myself a little. I was guilty for many years of not following my passion. I worked jobs I didn’t enjoy, just to pay the bills. Luckily I realised this well before it was too late, so it’s something I preach to others.

Start working towards what you are passionate today. Take a few minutes a day if that’s all you have. Work upwards from there, you’ll never get there if you don’t try. You will always life without regret when you do try.

Not Appreciating How Good Things Actually Are

Another thing I can guarantee to anyone who is reading this – you have it much better than you think you do. If you’re reading this you have access to the net, all the basics of food and shelter covered, and you’re looking to improve yourself.

Far too many people live without even these basic needs being met around the world. Things we take for granted and enjoy daily. We have it very good, appreciate how lucky you are. Don’t feel guilty, feel blessed.

Not Travelling Enough

Not everyone wants to travel, yet it makes the list of the most common regrets. So what can we take from this? Does this mean more of us what to travel than we realise, and we only realise when it’s too late?

I think that’s part of it. Another part is that we all get wrapped up in our busy lives and think we don’t have time to stop and take a vacation. Why not let this inspire you to do something a little crazy and book a holiday?

Not Taking Risks When They Were Present

How many times have you dodged doing something daring because you were scared, only to think afterwards ‘I wish I had done it’? Well apparently you’re not alone, this is a common regret among those looking back at their lives.

The way to not end up feeling the same is an easy one. Take that bungee jump, go for that job you don’t think you can get, put yourself outside of your comfort zone and take risks. It’s difficult, that’s why it’s a risk. But the adrenaline and feeling afterwards isn’t easily matched.

Not Spending Enough Time with Loved Ones

This has to feel painful looking back. It’s hard to put a number on how much time we should spend with our loved ones. But I think we all know deep down if we could be spending more time.

This one is easy because it’s a win-win. Your friends and family would love to see more of you, and you can easily set some time aside each week to drop in on them. So don’t leave this until it’s too late and you have regrets.