Nurse at palliative care reveals the top 5 regrets of people right before they died

The Top 5 Regrets People Have Before They Die

It’s easy to take things for granted, and we often don’t realize how much we have until it’s too late. Many people, as they look back on their lives, regret things they did not do or choices they avoided. Some may get a second chance to make things right, while others live with their regrets. So, what do people most commonly regret in life?

Bronnie Ware, a nurse who spent years in palliative care, shares the top regrets of people facing their final days in her book The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing. She writes about the special moments shared with her patients during their last weeks, and the lessons they had learned about life. Here are the top five regrets she observed:

1. “I Wish I Had Lived a Life True to Myself”

Many people regret not following their own dreams because they worried about what others would think. Reflecting on their lives, they wish they had honored their true desires instead of living for others. This serves as a reminder to follow your heart and never give up on your goals.

2. “I Wish I Hadn’t Worked So Hard”

Work can often take up so much of our time that we miss out on important moments with family and friends. People frequently regret not balancing work with the things that truly matter in life.

3. “I Wish I Had Expressed My Feelings”

Many people regret not being honest about their emotions, whether it’s telling loved ones how much they care or expressing their true feelings. Bottling things up often leads to pain and regret.

4. “I Wish I Had Stayed in Touch with My Friends”

Life changes, and priorities shift, but many people regret losing touch with friends who once meant so much to them. They realize too late how important those relationships were.

5. “I Wish I Had Let Myself Be Happier”

Happiness is a choice. Some people live their lives pretending to be content, but deep down, they long for true happiness. Fear often holds them back, but letting go of fear and embracing joy is key to living a fulfilling life.

In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.