Regret (n): a feeling of sadness, repentance, or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.
We all feel regret, things we've done or said that we wish we could take back. That sinking feeling in your stomach, when all you can think is, "what was I thinking?" The feeling of regret helps us to learn some of our biggest life lessons. How are we supposed to learn without making mistakes? In the moment, we feel awful, but down the road, those mistakes help everything else make sense.
One of the biggest and best decisions I've ever made is to not feel regret. Regret seemed to have such a negative impact on me; holding a huge storm cloud over my head. Looking back on the past, there were things I did I regretted so badly, that moving forward almost seemed impossible. Luckily, now I've realized that it was all a part of becoming who I am.
Decisions are not always the result of thoughtful contemplation. We can all admit to making decisions on impulse. Regardless of the decision, at the time you made it, it was something you wanted. Be willing to own the decisions you make and be accountable for them. Make decisions with the fullness of your heart and mind, but don't let them bog you down later.
Instead of drowning yourself in devastation and thinking, "what could have been if I had not made that decision," think of what can and will come out of it now, because you made that decision. Sometimes, losing one thing opens you up to something else. It might be a lesson that helps you be more effective and happier in the future, or it could be a new possibility you never even imagined.
Our actions do have consequences, but it's helpful to remember that nothing is permanent. Change is powerful, and the majority of the time, you are in control. Turn regret and negativity into positivity and reinforcement of your decision whether your making things right or learning from the experience.
It's often not possible for us to realize what we want until we experience what we don't what. Don't regret realization. Decision making is a huge part of life and a huge learning experience. It's all about taking risks and realizing the chance of making a wrong decision.
Looking back on all the "bad decisions" I've made in my life, I can't say I have one single regret. I don't regret never making the Dean's List, because I got to make some killer memories, and most importantly, didn't make my four years at college miserable. All the wrong things I've done in my past relationships, my decision to live out my twenties instead of getting a serious job, taking time to do what I love, and so much more. I've learned what I don't want and realized what I do and I won't settle until I reach that.
Decision making comes with learning to move on and let go. Constantly looking back in the rear view is no way to live life.
“Every new day is another chance to change your life.” -Unknown
