ROCK thru the Top Five Regrets of the Dying
by Lee Havenga | June 29, 2023
In her book “The Top Five Regrets of the Dying,” Bronnie Ware, an Australian nurse, shares profound insights she gained from her experiences with patients in palliative care. You can also be inspired by her wisdom in her TEDx Talk. The heart-wrenching stories of those facing the end of their lives show us how the four ROCK thru principles (Respect, Ownership, Connection, and Kindness) are the common wisdom threads in yet another life philosophy.
“When people realise that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honoured even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made.”
~ Bronnie Ware, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying
RESPECT
Apply it
The first regret, “I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me,” reflects the importance of self-Respect. Society’s expectations and fear of judgment often lead us astray from our authentic path. We must gather the courage to embrace who we are, honor ourselves, and live in alignment with our values. Knowing and acting upon our unconditional value creates a life that resonates with our souls and helps us find fulfillment.
OWNERSHIP
Apply it
The second regret, “I wish I hadn’t worked so hard,” highlights the significance of Ownership in our lives. This regret, predominantly expressed by men, serves as a reminder to find a harmonious balance between work and personal life. Taking Ownership means becoming aware and accepting that our time is limited and precious. It prompts us to prioritize what truly matters: cherishing relationships, experiencing joy, and savoring life’s simple pleasures. By consciously choosing a balanced approach, we can ensure a life well-lived.
CONNECTION
Apply it
“I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings” and “I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends” are two regrets that underscore the significance of Connection. Humans are social creatures, and fostering meaningful relationships is vital for our well-being. We create a foundation of support, love, and shared experiences by expressing our emotions honestly and maintaining Connections with loved ones. Nurturing relationships allows us to live a life rich in love, compassion, and understanding.
KINDNESS
Apply it
The last regret, “I wish that I had let myself be happier,” resonates with the importance of Kindness towards others and ourselves. Choosing Kindness is an act of self-compassion and embracing the potential for joy and happiness. It involves breaking free from old patterns, letting go of fear, and cultivating a mindset that fosters positivity and gratitude. By choosing happiness, we create an environment of love, contentment, and authenticity for ourselves and those around us.
Bronnie Ware’s poignant book is a profound reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life. The regrets expressed by those at the end of their journey offer invaluable insights for living a meaningful existence. By embodying the principles of Respect, Ownership, Connection, and Kindness, we can forge a path that aligns with our true selves, nurtures relationships, and cultivates happiness.
Let us learn from these regrets and embrace the wisdom they impart so that when our time comes, we may look back on a life well-lived with minimal regrets and abundant fulfillment. ROCK thru without regrets. XO ~ Lee
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