In the quiet of a hospice room, Sarah whispered, “If only I had…” Her words echo an incredible statistic: 76% of people express regrets on their deathbed.

This profound insight highlights the importance of understanding these regrets; doing so serves as a powerful reminder that life is fleeting and that we have the ability to shape our experiences now.

This article was inspired by a book I came across by Bronnie Ware. Later on here, in a TED Talk, she discusses the top five deathbed regrets.

I want to bring attention to this and provide some actionable insights for readers to make meaningful changes.

I hope you’ll understand what motivates you and take meaningful action today… regardless of your age.

“(You better lose) yourself in the music
The moment you own it, you better never let it go
You only get one shot; do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo” …Eminem

Regret #1: Not Living Authentically

Many regret living lives shaped by others’ expectations instead of being true to themselves.

Pursuing careers chosen by their parents or suppressing passions to follow societal norms. For example, Sarah, an accountant, confessed on her deathbed that she’d always wanted to be an artist but feared ridicule. She spent decades in a career she hated, yearning for something more.

Embrace authenticity by identifying your core values and passions.

What brings you joy and fulfilment?

Set boundaries that protect your energy and connect your actions with your true self. Be active with hobbies that excite you, or take small steps toward a dream you’ve always wanted to try.

Surround yourself with people who encourage your individuality.

Living authentically requires courage, but the rewards — a sense of purpose and peace — are immeasurable.

Don’t wait for “someday” to live a life true to who you are.

Regret #2: Working Too Much

One of the biggest regrets is devoting excessive time to work, often at the cost of relationships and personal well-being.

John, a successful CEO, admitted in his final days that he missed watching his children grow up because of his relentless focus on career achievements. “I missed my daughter’s first steps, her first words. I thought I was securing her future, but I was missing her present.”

The moments he sacrificed for promotions could never be reclaimed.

To achieve work-life balance, prioritise what truly matters. Make quality time with loved ones a non-negotiable appointment on your calendar. Set boundaries by saying NO to tasks that don’t meet your priorities. Delegate or reduce hours when possible, and consider how your career goals relate to your life values.

Time is the one resource you can never earn back.

Regret #3: Not Expressing Feelings

Many regret not expressing their feelings, particularly love and appreciation, to those who matter most.

Tom, a stoic father of three, broke down as he admitted, “I never told my children how proud I am of them. I thought they knew.” This common assumption often leads to missed opportunities for deeper connections and mutual understanding.

I suggest starting small: tell a coworker you appreciate their help or text a friend to say you’re thinking of them. Gradually work up to more significant expressions of love and gratitude to family and close friends.

Practising active listening is a good idea to create a safe space for others to share their feelings.

Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s the cornerstone of meaningful relationships. If expressing feelings verbally is challenging, try writing letters or using non-verbal gestures of affection.

The more you practice, the easier and more natural it becomes.

Regret #4: Losing Touch with Friends

As life becomes increasingly busy with careers and family obligations, friendships often fade, leading many to regret not nurturing those connections.

Mark had a close-knit group of friends in college, but as they pursued careers and started families, he lost touch with them over the years. On his deathbed, he expressed regret about not making more of an effort to stay connected. “I wish I had made more effort to stay connected with my friends,” he said, his voice laced with nostalgia.

This regret emphasises the importance of keeping friendships, significantly improving our lives. To nurture friendships, make a conscious effort to schedule regular catch-ups in person or via video call.

Use social media to reconnect with old friends, send a simple message to check in or share a happy memory. Consider organising annual reunions or monthly get-togethers to strengthen these connections, as investing time in friendships can bring tremendous joy and fulfilment.

Regret #5: Not Taking Risks

Many people regret avoiding risks because they fear failure. They often wish they had taken more chances in their lives, bursting through their comfort zones.

Emily had always dreamed of starting her own business, which she believed could fulfil her creative passions. However, she let fear hold her back, convincing herself it was safer to remain in her unfulfilling job.

Lisa, a woman who loved travelling, shared that she never pursued her dream of exploring the world because of financial fears. She spent her last days wishing she had dared to live more boldly.

On her deathbed, she reflected sadly, “I wish I had been brave enough to follow my dreams.” This regret highlights the importance of welcoming risks and challenges.

Begin small — whether trying a new hobby, speaking up in a meeting, or travelling to a new place — each step can build your courage.

Welcome the idea that failure is part of the learning process. Living without regrets involves daring to follow what matters most to you.

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Life’s most profound regrets often stem from inaction, not mistakes.

Reread the article and take action in the areas that resonate most with you. This will give you the opportunity to live intentionally, pursuing authenticity, balance, connection, and boldness.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson wisely said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”

Feel the fear, and do it anyway!