8 Ways to Avoid Living With Regret

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If you're reading this, you probably have a desire to maintain a positive perspective on life.  You get up everyday with the intention of living your life to the fullest.  You don't want drama or chaos to invade your mind.  But you have some regrets - and surely some bad habits as well.   You're constantly having to make choices and sometimes it's hard to keep yourself happy without disappointing others and vice versa. 

I'd like to share eight principles to help you simplify your life and live mindfully.  The key to living without regret is being true to yourself - plain and simple.  Everything falls into place after that. 

Save.  We all know that rainy days are sure to come but knowing that you have a nest egg to fall back on is immensely comforting.  A disciplined approach to saving will do wonders for your peace of mind. Even if you can only save five dollars here and there, be consistent about it and increase the amount when you can.

Spend.  Don't take yourself so seriously that you save all of your fun for some far off day in the future.   Why not appreciate your hard work now?  Treat yourself every now and then.  Wear your sexy panties, just because.  Save up and buy yourself a designer bag, just because.

Be honest.  First and foremost, know thyself.  Then, say what you need to say.  Ask what you need to ask.  Don't be afraid to change your mind and speak up about it.  Wave your flag confidently, no matter what color it is. 

Go to the doctor.  Nothing is more distracting than an ignored health concern.  Don't put yourself at risk because you are afraid of what you will find out.  Stick to your periodic wellness visits and have problems checked out promptly.   

Stay in touch.  I'm sure you're busy.  I know that I am.  Don't get so busy that you forget to connect with your loved ones. Tomorrow isn't promised. 

Don't procrastinate.  Unfinished tasks cause unnecessary stress.  How many times have you waited until the last minute to do something and realized that you need more time?  Or that the resources you need are now gone? For me, this has been one of the most difficult habits to break.  I struggle with this on a regular basis.  Got any tips?

Don't overpromise.  Be realistic about your priorities.  You can't put yourself at the mercy of what everyone else needs from you.  If you don't have boundaries and a good amount of self-awareness, you will end up disappointing yourself and others. 

Forgive and let go.  The biggest distraction from today's joy is the pain of yesterday.  How much time do we waste feeling victimized?  Plotting revenge?  When you forgive, you are proving that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.  Yes, pain does indeed change you.  It makes you more beautiful, if you let it.

What are some other ways that we can avoid living with regret?  How does it hurt you when you continue to carry it with you?