What will you regret?
This afternoon I was supposed to do stuff. Like, the usual work stuff. The same kind of stuff I was doing in the morning, and yesterday, and the day before.
Instead, I went on a walk with a friend who could really use some emotional support and company and fresh air and laughter in this period.
“I can always do my stuff later” – I thought. But then my sister stopped by to visit, and I played with my nephews for the rest of the evening.
As they went away, I realized I did nothing of what I thought I’d be doing after lunch today. And I was happy.
Because I’d asked myself: "Will I ever regret not doing this stuff? Likely not. Could I possibly regret not spending enough time with my nephews? Surely yes."
I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the usual work stuff. I don’t mean to insinuate they’re not important or useful.
All I’m saying is, they’re just means to an end. And I can definitely postpone sending a few emails or preparing some quotes or anything like that.
Work is not that important to me. I don’t consider money to be a goal in and of itself – at best, it could be a proxy for what truly matters in life.
Now wouldn’t it be foolish to take care of the proxy, when the very thing is right there?
I must admit, though, I can’t quite put my finger on what truly matters in life. There’s so much I haven’t figure out yet, and so much I never will.
But when I look back at the moment I cherish, they were all life experiences. Usually shared experiences, with people I feel grateful to have met.
I know I made this mistake several time in the past: not giving enough time, presence, and attention my loved ones. Today, I am happy I gave them priority.