Bronnie Ware, a hospice nurse, spent years listening to the regrets of patients nearing the end of their lives. Her insights, shared through her blog and book, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, reveal five common themes that can inspire us to live more meaningfully. Working in palliative care, she witnessed profound growth as patients faced their mortality, moving through fear and denial to find peace.
One frequent regret was working too hard. Many men, often the main earners, wished they’d spent more time with family instead of at the office. They missed out on precious moments with loved ones. Another common wish was living life on their own terms. Patients admitted to suppressing their dreams to please others, leaving them unfulfilled and without the peace that comes from following their passions.
Keeping friendships alive was another missed opportunity. Life’s busyness often pulls us from friends, but patients regretted letting these bonds slip away. A 2023 survey found 8% of Americans lack close friends, underscoring how vital these connections are. Many also wished they’d been braver about sharing their feelings. Holding back to avoid conflict led to resentment, sometimes even affecting their health.
The final regret was not choosing happiness enough. Patients realized too late that happiness is a choice, not just luck. They felt trapped by routines, missing chances for joy. Bronnie’s lesson from her patients is powerful: life is ours to choose. By prioritizing what truly matters—family, authenticity, friendships, feelings, and happiness—we can live with purpose and avoid the regrets that weigh heavy at the end.
