The Power of Regret
THE POWER OF REGRET by Daniel Pink | Core Message
Anticipate future regret
Foundation regrets: If only I'd done the work
For example: "If only I'd drank less and maintained a disciplined diet, I wouldn't have so many health problems today." Or "If only I'd worked hard in my twenties, I wouldn't be in this dead‐end job today."
Boldness regrets: If only I'd taken that risk
For example: "If only I'd asked that girl out." Or "If only I'd started that business."
"If foundation regrets arise from the failure to plan ahead, work hard, follow through, and build a stable platform for life, boldness regrets...arise from the failure to take full advantage of that platform - to use it as a springboard into a richer life." ‐ Daniel Pink
Moral regrets: If only I'd done the right thing
For example: "I wish I hadn't bullied that kid in school." Or "I wish I'd been faithful to my wife."
Connection regrets: If only I'd reached out
"If only I'd reached out to my friend before she died of cancer." Or "If only I'd apologized to my son and mended our relationship sooner."
The weekly regret template
Now that you know the four universal regrets, try to anticipate how your future‐self (living seven days in the future) might complete the following sentences:
Foundation Regrets (neglecting your health, professional growth, or finances):
- I wish I'd taken care of my health this week by...
- I wish I'd advanced my career this week by...
- I wish I'd increased my savings this week by...
Boldness Regrets (too afraid to take emotional and social risks):
- I wish I'd tried...
- I wish I'd started...
- I wish I'd asked...
Moral Regrets (not doing the right thing in difficult situations):
- I wish I'd remained loyal to...
- I wish I'd been kinder to...
- I wish I'd stood up for...
Connection Regrets (letting key relationships drift):
- I wish I'd reached out to...
- I wish I'd forgiven...