What matters most in life?

What matters most in life? (Photo: iStock)

Hi Chris,

How does a young person find out what is important in life? Right now all my friends are rushing to get ahead, but I can't help feeling that we will eventually all wish we'd done things differently.

No Regrets

Chris says,

Hi, No Regrets!

One good way is to talk with the oldest people in your family because they have usually figured it all out!

They will tell you that it is not the mistakes you make that you will regret, but the things you didn't try for. So do not keep putting things off until it is too late.

They will tell you that you are working too hard. That your income and possessions will mean nothing in the end. That what really matters are the people who are dear to you. So make more time for your friends, family, and relationships.

They'll tell you to have children because if you do not you will have huge regrets about having no one to love in your old age.

They will tell you to be braver in love. To talk to that interesting stranger rather than spending the rest of your life wondering what might have been. To say 'I love you' much more often. To be closer to your spouse and your children.

They will tell you to speak your mind more often. Because not confronting someone who is offended you might keep the peace, but repressed anger breeds bitterness. While constructive conflict can deepen respect and understanding. So face up to conflicts and then forgive, before it is too late.

They will tell you to save enough money for your old age. So that you can have more options, independence and security when that time comes.

They will tell you to be truly honest about who you are. That it is all too easy to pretend to be someone you're not, just to be liked. It is better to have the courage to be yourself.

And last but not least, they'll tell you that your life is what you decide to make it! So start making some changes right now, so that you're not full of regrets in your old age!

All the best,

Chris