Five Important Regrets

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”  Albert Einstein
 
Bonnie Ware, an Australian hospice nurse published a book to illustrate the most common regrets in life made by terminal patients. What is surprising, or perhaps not, are the absence of reflections on achievement, the collection of possessions or accomplishments, and the accumulation of wealth. Consistently the regrets were focused on dissatisfaction with personal fulfillment.
 
The Five Regrets of Dying...

• I wished I had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life expected of me.

 

• I wished I hadn’t worked so hard or so long.

 

• I wished I had the courage to express my true feelings.

 

• I wished I had stayed in touch with my friends.

 

• I wished I had let myself be happier.

 
What can you learn from these insights?
 
That living in balance and harmony and in seeking fulfillment in your life and work is the ultimate measure of success?
 
The implication is not that the pursuit of accomplishment and achievement is wrong or unnecessary, but it must be balanced with mindful awareness, by living in the present moment, by being grateful, and by taking time to celebrate the people, family and relationships, which add such value to our lives.
 
When looking at the powerful communication devices we have at our fingertips, they seem to provide extraordinary potential. Yet more and more people are concerned with an introspective preoccupation with the technology and less and less of a meaningful connection between people.
 
“Mindfulness is about being fully awake in our lives. It is about perceiving the exquisite vividness of each moment. We also gain immediate access to our own powerful inner resources for insight, transformation, and healing.” Jon Kabat-Zinn
 
It is obvious as we get older possessions begin to lose their importance and are gradually replaced by a focus on friendship and relationships, on mindful living and a deep sense of awareness, and on a connection to the beautiful world we are all fortunate to live in.
 
Although many are consumed with the daily and often essential treadmill of achievement, looking back over their life story causes the same people to regret the lack of meaning, the lack of fulfillment and the missed opportunity in their lives.
 
“The peace each of these people found is available to you now, without waiting for your final hours. You have the choice to change your life, to be courageous, to live a life true to your heart, one that will see you pass without regret.” Bonnie Ware
 
For those who are focused on improving their lives and seeking personal growth and fulfillment Ruby Red Road is presenting an extraordinary and unique two-day workshop in Saratoga Springs in May. This limited seating event is called The Irresistible Advantage: Your Blueprint for Success. It will change your life forever!