There will always be a “What If”.
This is typically what resides in our inner thoughts when we’ve made a decision, and immediately regret choosing it over another. It happens. We can’t always make the best decisions for ourselves or even for our families depending on where you are now in life, but the most important thing to remember is that, though we have no control over our past, we can still make an effort to push forward towards creating a future we can be truly satisfied with.
In my opinion, experiencing regret is a big part of growth. It can be an emotional rollercoaster to encounter, but I’ve also found that it actually builds character and resilience in the process. How I react to mistakes, missed opportunities or losses is key. By not allowing regret to prevent me from facing challenging situations or making tough decisions I prove to myself that no matter how difficult the road becomes, I can always find a way to persevere.
We can spend a lifetime punishing ourselves over not knowing “then” what we know “now”, not taking advice, wasting time even; or we can make the changes necessary based on the wisdom we’ve gained because of these mishaps and use them to dictate our actions going forward.
When I’ve found myself deep in discomforting regret, the best way for me to overcome this is to embrace it; not deny myself of the feeling it caused but instead, feel my way to a breakthrough and minimize any regrets going forward by accepting my choices for what they are and being kind for not knowing what I couldn’t have known.
To overcome regret and face your fear, reflect on what it is that you regret. Acknowledge the circumstances for what they are think about what you would do different. Focus on what you can control and strategize a new approach.
Its impossible not to make mistakes. When you’ve found yourself in the moment of regret, ask yourself: “Is there anything I can do differently ‘now’ that can change the road ahead?” Forward Thinking Only!
