1. Not living for themselves
The most common regret of all was people wished they had the courage to live the life they wanted; rather than the life others expected of them.
When people realised that their life was almost over, they were able to look back on it clearly and saw how many dreams went unfulfilled.
Most people realised they hadn't accomplished even half of their dreams and died regretting the choices they made (or didn't make).
2. Working too hard
The men in particular often expressed regret that they didn't spend more time with their spouse or children during their lifetime.
Some women also spoke about this regret; however male patients had typically been breadwinners who spent much of their time at work, rather than with their families.
3. Holding things in
Many people revealed they had suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others.
As a result, they settled for a 'mediocre existence' and never reached their full potential.
4. Losing touch with friends
Many would only truly realise the full benefits of old friendships in their final few weeks, however it was not always possible to track them down at that point.
People became so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years.
5. Not allowing themselves to be happy
Most people realised at the end that happiness was a choice.
Fear of change made people to keep pretending to others, and to themselves, that they were content.
When deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again.'
When you are dying, what others think of you doesn't even enter your mind.
Life is a choice.
It is YOUR life.
Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness.
