“Should Have Done That Differently” Moments—People Age 60+ Share Their Regrets

21.

I’d of worked less when the kids were little. I routinely worked 55 hrs a week and no we didn’t get overtime. I’ve had a very successful career but you can’t buy that time back with money. I was always trying to prove myself to my dad and took until mid 30’s to realize this was my life. I’ve always worked more than I should but when the kids were little I should have had different priorities.

Wish my dad had of said son, slow down and enjoy the ride. I’ve told my kids only push that hard for you. Don’t do it for anyone else and I’ll love them no matter what. So far they are all doing well but none are workaholics. Very grateful that stopped with me and I didn’t pass it down. Also the best way to love your kids is to love your spouse.—u/love_that_fishing

22.

Should have kept struggling with my small business instead of throwing in the towel and taking a 9 to 5 job with benefits. If someone other than yourself in is signing your paycheck, you’re way underpaid—u/Schid1953

23.

Asked my mom, here’s her advice – stop getting married so young. Live your dreams because it’s harder once you’re married and have a family. You’re dumb through your 20’s. 30 and up is marriage time.

And if you don’t like children, don’t have them. The world is messed up enough already.—u/TheEmpressDodo

24.

I’m 62. Do what you want and don’t worry about what others think. You want to try that new restaurant but have no one to go with? Go alone and enjoy yourself! Overweight but not swimming because of how you look in a swimsuit? Who cares? Swim your heart out! Mouthing hymns in church because you sing off key? Sing loud and make a joyful noise!

But most importantly, be kind. Regardless of how anyone treats you or what anyone says, be kind. You can walk away, disagree, and/or not respect someone who doesn’t deserve it, but do it kindly. Be argumentative or getting butt hurt or cursing and yelling only serves to make you feel worse later.—u/kimstrongheart

25.

One of my teachers in high school said this when she retired – Always make decisions for yourself, what would be best for you. Choosing things according to friends, relationship and family will cost you opportunities and you will have regrets. They may support you for awhile at your low but if your entire life becomes a mess they won’t be able to help you.—u/[deleted]

26.

My mom is a medical doctor and has been with probably 100 people on their deathbeds throughout the years. She told me what always shocked her was how similar every person’s regrets were. People always wished they’d had one more kid, been a better husband/wife, or been a better parent/child. At the end of the day, focus on family. It is one of the few things that will truly remember you when you’re gone.—u/paxkid

27.

From seeing my parents age and express regrets:

Take care of your hearing at concerts

Ensure a retirement

Don’t marry because you feel pressure to do it

It’s never too late to learn a new skill. My dad started learning a new skill for a new job and stopped 10 years ago. He’s pushing 70 and regretting not making the effort.

My grandma:

Don’t stay married just to honor your vows if they’re not honoring theirs.

Don’t stop moving/exercising and doing things for yourself.

Never stop learning — she went to community college as a senior citizen and also kept an open mind regarding women’s rights, homosexuality, and race, etc.—u/l_ally

28.

Learn to meditate and attempt to tame your mind as early as possible.—u/krakeneverything

29.

Asked my mother (63) 1 month before she died in hospice of cancer. She said she spent far too much time thinking about what people thought of her. Miss you mum. I took that lesson, now I try to live my best life with way less f**ks to give.—u/chunks79

30.

I’m 68 and retired. People made fun of me for being one cheap son of a b*tch. I saved and invested, now I’m financially stable. A $4 dollar cup of coffee not purchased is worth $40 in retirement.—u/RonSwansonsOldMan

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