Many fear waking up in old age filled with regret, especially regarding their relationships.
They dread the thought of not having done enough to save their marriage, the impact of a divorce on their children, or not acting sooner before it was too late. This fear of regret is a powerful motivator to take action in our relationships.
Bronnie Ware, a former palliative nurse, asked individuals in their final days about their biggest regrets. A common theme emerged: “I wish I had the courage to live a life true to myself, without regrets.” Poet Oliver Wendell Holmes once said that many people die with their music still in them, waiting to start living. This sentiment rings true for many, especially regarding their personal relationships.
For most of my clients, a wake-up call comes when their relationship is on the brink of collapse, often when a partner expresses a loss of love. This moment of crisis can be a powerful catalyst for change, prompting action to save the marriage and avoid future regrets.
My personal wake-up call came through a family tragedy. On April 7, 2011, I received a call that my sister Brigid, a nurse suffering from an undiagnosed terminal illness, was nearing the end. Rushing to her side, I was confronted with the stark reality of life’s fragility. Brigid, who had always been career-driven, expressed that her most significant life achievements were not her professional successes but the relationships she nurtured and the time spent with family. She emphasized to me, “Just be happy and remember family is the most important thing, Grant.”
In her final months, Brigid valued her relationships above all, highlighting the profound truth that at the end of our journey, it’s the connections we’ve made and maintained that count the most.
This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of acting now in our relationships. Don’t wait to express your love and appreciation for those close to you. Don’t put off seeking help if your marriage is struggling. To live a life free from regrets, it’s crucial to take proactive steps towards nurturing and salvaging the relationships that matter most.
If you’re looking to strengthen your marriage and avoid future regrets, we can help. Watch our free masterclass, The Five Secrets To Saving Your Marriage, and start your journey towards a fulfilled, regret-free life. Remember, it’s never too early, but it can be too late.