Lisa O
Hindsight is a powerful thing. Ask older people what they regret, and most won’t mention the things they did—they’ll talk about the things they didn’t do. The risks they avoided, the chances they missed, and the lessons they learned too late. If you’re lucky enough to have time on your side, here are 15 things many older people wish they had done sooner.
Taken More Risks
Fear keeps people stuck—stuck in the wrong jobs, wrong relationships, or just the wrong version of themselves. Looking back, many older people realize they were too cautious. They wish they had spoken up, made bold moves, or followed their gut instead of playing it safe. Because in the end, the biggest regrets aren’t the risks that failed, but the ones they never took.
Saved (and Invested) Earlier
Money doesn’t buy happiness, but it does buy freedom—freedom to retire comfortably, to travel, to help family without stress. Many wish they had started saving and investing when they were younger rather than assuming they had “plenty of time.” Compound interest is powerful, but only if you give it time to work.
Prioritized Health Before It Was a Problem
When you’re young, skipping workouts or eating junk food seems harmless. However, by the time health issues appear, reversing the damage is much harder. Many older people wish they had exercised regularly, eaten better, and taken small steps to stay strong and mobile. Because once your body slows down, so does everything else.
Spent More Time with Loved Ones
Careers, obligations, and life’s daily grind often get in the way of family and friends. But looking back, no one ever says, “I wish I had worked more weekends.” Many regret missing birthdays, skipping reunions, or not making time for simple phone calls. The people who matter won’t be around forever, and neither will you.
Learned to Say “No” Without Guilt
Too many people spend years saying “yes” to things they don’t want to do—extra work, social events, obligations that drain them. Many older people wish they had realized sooner that saying “no” doesn’t make you selfish. It just means you value your own time and energy. Understand the difference.
Stopped Worrying About What Others Think
For years, people obsess over approval—how they look, how they act, and what others say about them. Then, one day, they realize that no one really cares. Everyone is too busy with their own lives. Many wish they had spent less time trying to please others and more time just being themselves.
Traveled More While They Had the Energy
Travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about experiencing life. Many older people regret waiting for the “right time” to travel, only to find themselves too busy, too broke, or too tired. The truth? The best time to see the world is when you still can. Even if you’re old, you can travel the world.
Pursued Their Passion Instead of Just a Paycheck
Yes, paying the bills is important. But many older people look back and wish they had followed their passion alongside their career. Writing that book, starting that business, learning that instrument—too often, people put off their dreams in the name of “being practical” until it’s too late.
Stopped Holding Grudges
Anger and resentment take up so much space in your mind, and for what? Many wish they had let go of old grudges sooner instead of carrying around bitterness for years. Holding onto resentment doesn’t punish the other person—it only punishes you. How long will you hold the grudges? It will only hurt you.
Taken Better Care of Their Mental Health
Stress, anxiety, and self-doubt creep in over the years, and too many people ignore it. Older people often wish they had asked for help when they needed it—whether through therapy, meditation or just taking a break when life got overwhelming. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and neglecting it has long-term consequences.
Documented More Moments
Life moves fast, and memories fade. Many wish they had taken more photos, kept journals, or simply written down their thoughts. Not just for themselves but for their loved ones—because one day, those little scraps of history become priceless. Start today by writing one page about your day. You can note down even the most mundane things.
Stopped Waiting for the “Right Time”
So many dreams get postponed—starting a business, moving to a new city, learning a skill (if you want to look after your health, you can join yoga classes. The excuse is always the same: “Now isn’t the right time.” But older people realize too late that the “perfect time” never comes. The only right time is now.
Strengthened Their Friendships
Life gets busy, and friendships fade if you don’t nurture them. Many regret not putting in the effort to stay connected with old friends—because, in the end, having good friendships is one of the greatest joys in life. And it’s much harder to rebuild them later. So keep a hold on your good friends.
Expressed Love More Often
People assume their loved ones just know how they feel. But unspoken words don’t always get through. Many older people regret not saying “I love you” more often, giving more hugs, or simply showing their appreciation while they still have the chance. When your partner won’t be there anymore, you will regret not saying this.
Lived More in the Present
So many people spend their lives waiting—waiting for retirement, waiting for the weekend, waiting for things to “get better.” But life is happening right now. Many older people wish they had stopped worrying about the past, stopped stressing about the future, and just enjoyed today. Live today; don’t worry about tomorrow.