In the past year, I have made a conscious effort to live my life with no regrets. So, what does that mean? Does it mean I take all kinds of crazy risks, live life on the edge and take extravagant vacations? No, not at all. In fact, I’m pretty non-adventurous. But, what it does mean is that each day, however boring or exciting it is, I try to make and live by decisions that I will not later regret. In other words, I try to live each day knowing that the choice I’m making is the best choice I can make for me (or my family) at that particular moment. It might be whether to indulge or not to indulge in chocolate that day. It might be as simple as deciding whether or not to go for a run, or whether or not to call an old friend. But whatever decisions they are, I will live each day without any regrets. I won’t say, “I should have had that piece of chocolate,” or, “I should have called that friend I was thinking about.” If I decide not to have that piece of chocolate, it’s because today I really don’t want it or need it. But I won’t regret it. If I decide not to go for a run on a particular day, it’s because my mental and physical energy will serve me better elsewhere. But I won't regret it.
Not too long ago, I was faced with a decision to participate in something that I was very scared to do. My initial instinct was to say no and pass it up. But within seconds, I realized I would regret not taking part. I would second-guess myself and wonder “What if?” So, I went ahead and did the thing that I was so afraid of doing. And although hard, I am a better person today for it. More importantly, I have no regrets.
The death of the neighbor hit that point home to me yet again. It also makes it even clearer to me that life is too short and too precious to get wrapped up in the insignificant, petty things that disrupt our peace and our joy.
What is really important to you? What would you say to someone if you knew today would be their last day? Is that grudge you’re holding really that important to the whole scheme of your life? Is the anger you’re holding on to making you a better, stronger or more loving person? Or is it creating bitterness, hatred, hurt feelings and sadness? I suspect it’s the latter. So why hold on to it? Did you wish you called an old friend today? Did you regret not buying those shoes you saw on sale? Did you wish you went on your usual morning run, or do you wish that you had skipped it? Live each of your days to the fullest. Make the best choices you can. Be happy that you have today. And know that you will have no regrets tomorrow.