Like many people, I also wonder what it is to live a life without regret. There must be freedom from guilt, disappointment, unhappiness and grief.
Living with constant regret can be one of the most challenging life issues we have to deal with. Regretting past mistakes, decisions, or things not done can burden our mental health.
Regret depletes your energy and keeps you locked up in a discouraging mindset.
But there is something we can do to reduce or eliminate the feeling of regret and find a way to be content in life?
I had my share of regret, living in a pit of low-self esteem, blaming other people for my unhappiness.
It never occurred to me that I chose my life; therefore, I could fix whatever was broken.
What prolonged the regret was my expectation of others to change.
Of course, that didn’t happen, and my suffering and blame continued. I had no hope for the future, and feeling like a victim was very comforting.
After many years of living my life in regret, I have found my way to a purposeful life. My decision and desire to change led me to the life I live today.
A regretful life is a waste
Living with regret is a huge waste of your life. You’re probably aware of how the feeling of being disappointed in yourself controls every aspect of your life.
Once you discover your power to change, the burden will lift, and your life will improve. Of course, you have to accept the past and learn the lesson.
Regrets can affect others
Your anger and unhappiness can and will affect your loved ones. Your desire to be a loving mom, spouse or friend is occupied with regret of the past, and no energy is left to enjoy the present time. When your mind is busy with these negative feelings of regret, you can’t feel good about yourself.
There are times when we feel like cutting ourselves off from those we love, living life in isolation and loneliness. Living a life in the present and dealing with a disapproving past is a constant battle of who is in control. The regret of our past life carries a lot of fear that we must overcome.
Being aware of your regrets and what you can do to liberate yourself from them is a step in the right direction. What is it, specifically, that you regret and why?
• Choosing your present career?
• Not finding a more suitable partner?
• Not starting your own business?
Are your regrets about not having higher education? Sign up for the class that interests you and become a lifelong student.
You may regret wasting time. You can’t get time back, so you have to accept that as a life lesson.
Forgive yourself for the past negative choices you made. At that time, you more likely felt overwhelmed, lacking in information or support. You are not the same person today.
“May your choices reflect your hope, not your fears.” ~ Nelson Mandela
Ranka Burzan offers in-person life coaching via Zoom, owns a professional organizing company based in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter and becoming more organized. For information, go to solutionsorganizing.com or email [email protected]
