Reframing Regret in Past Decisions

What if the decisions you regret most were actually the ones that shaped you the most?

Here’s an experience that reminded me of that truth.

During a recent coaching conversation, a client shared something I hear often:

“I’m not happy about the career choice I made.”

So, I asked:

“What about it makes you unhappy?”

They shared their reasons.

Then I asked:

 “What about it are you happy with?”

They paused, thought, and shared the positives.

Finally, I asked:

 “If you were given the chance to decide again, would you choose differently?”

After reflecting, the client smiled and said:

“Actually, no. I think there’s a net positive that came out of this decision.”

Here’s the lesson.

Often, we carry the burden of regret about past decisions.

But when we zoom out, we realize those choices shaped us in valuable ways.

Even imperfect decisions can be the right ones in the long run.

Next time you feel regret, ask yourself.

• What worked out because of this decision?

• Would I truly undo it if I could?

The clarity that this gives you not only gets you out of the regret cycle,

but also declutters your mind to move forward with intention and confidence.

What’s one decision you once regretted, but now see as the right move?