Today’s post is a bit different—it’s one of those topics that might make you squirm a little, but stick with me.

I’ve been mulling over some fascinating insights from palliative care professionals I’ve crossed paths with over the years, including those who cared for loved ones before they passed.

Their wisdom, paired with my own journey, has me thinking about life, regrets, and how we can flip the script while we’re still kicking. Inspired by Bronnie Ware’s Top Five Regrets of the Dying—a gem from an Australian nurse who spent years listening to folks at life’s end—I’m diving into how I’ve tackled (or am still tackling) these biggies. Let’s chat about it, shall we?

1. Living True to Myself: The Divorce and the Great Bangkok Escape

One of Bronnie’s top regrets is folks wishing they’d lived a life true to themselves, not the one others expected. I get that deep in my soul.

In my 30s, I chose divorce—tough, with plenty of “are you sure?” moments, but so right for me. I kept only the company that mattered: family and friends who truly get me.

Then came the big shift—relocating to Bangkok for work. Though I no longer spend all my time there now, those 15+ years were a game-changer, helping me create a new life. I vanished from most radars, and it was a blessing.

Liberated from the “shoulds” of polite check-ins, I now connect because I want to, not because I’m obliged. Living true to myself? Absolutely.

2. Ditching the Grind: From 19-Hour Days to Sabbatical Bliss

“I wish I hadn’t worked so hard” was another common regret Ware documented.

My wake-up call came when I had a health scare that, thankfully, turned out to be benign. But finding that lump changed everything. After surgery, I made a commitment to myself: no more 19-hour workdays that had led to my body’s rebellion.

I’ve taken two sabbaticals already and am currently enjoying my third. Each time I step away, I gain clarity about what matters. Work will always be there, but our time and health won’t.

Now I work to live, not live to work—a simple shift that has made all the difference. I’ve since taken two sabbaticals, and I’m on my third now. Each time, I’ve resisted the pull to slide back into that grind.

That health scare was my wake-up call, and I’ve been living as fully as I can ever since. Work hard? Sure. Work myself into the ground? Never again.

3. Saying What Matters: The Gratitude Struggle

Here’s one I’m still wrestling with: “I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.” I’m not naturally a “pour my heart out” type, but I’ve been working on it.

Especially gratitude. I’ve had people—friends, family, even random kind souls—see me through some dark days. Lately, I’ve been making a point to tell them what they mean to me. It’s awkward sometimes, sure, but the warmth it brings? Worth it.

I’m not perfect at this yet, but I’m chipping away at it, one “thank you” at a time.

4. Reconnecting: Time Well Spent

Bronnie’s fourth regret—“I wish I’d stayed in touch with my friends”—hit me differently. This extended sabbatical I’ve gifted myself has been a golden ticket.

With time on my hands, I’ve reconnected with pals scattered across the globe Video calls, long emails, even a few meetups when travel allows—it’s been a joy.

I didn’t let those bonds fade into “remember when” territory. Instead, I grabbed the chance to catch up, laugh, and reminisce. Friends matter, and I’m not waiting for a deathbed to realize it.

5. Happiness on My Terms: Celebrating the Wins

Finally, “I wish I’d let myself be happier.” This one’s my jam. I’ve learned not to lean on others to make me happy—I do that for myself. My mantra? Do what you love, love what you do.

I celebrate everything—big wins, small victories, and especially my birthdays. No quiet, “oh, it’s just another day” nonsense for me. I have multiple celebratory meals, treat myself to trips, or just dance around my apartment. Happiness isn’t someone else’s job—it’s mine, and I’m owning it.

Your Turn: Don’t Wait for “I Wish I Had”

So, here’s my nudge to you, dear readers. These regrets Bronnie Ware wrote about? They’re not just for the end of the line—they’re questions to wrestle with now. I’ve spent years shortening my “I wish I had” list, turning it into “I’m doing it.” Divorce, sabbaticals, gratitude, friendships, joy—I’m not waiting for permission or perfect timing. Neither should you. What’s one regret you can tackle today? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on. Let’s live this active aging thing with no regrets, just a whole lot of “heck yes, I did that!”

Till next time, keep thriving!