The 12 Regrets Most People Share at the End of Life—And How to Live Without Them

As we move through life, many of us pursue achievement, comfort, and security. But what truly matters most often becomes clear in our final days. Bronnie Ware, an Australian palliative care nurse and author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, spent years listening to the reflections of those nearing the end of life. Her observations, echoed by caregivers and hospice workers across the globe, reveal universal truths—truths that can help us live better today.

Below are the 12 most common regrets people express in their final days, gathered from Ware’s work and supported by broader end-of-life research.

1. I wish I had lived a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

This is the most common regret. Many reach the end realizing they ignored their dreams to satisfy expectations—of parents, culture, or fear.

2. I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.

Especially prevalent among men, this regret stems from missing out on family milestones, relationships, and personal time in pursuit of career success.

3. I wish I had the courage to express my feelings.

Suppressing emotions to avoid conflict or vulnerability often leads to missed connections and emotional isolation.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

Old friendships fade with time, but many wish they’d made the effort to reconnect—especially when time becomes limited.

5. I wish I had let myself be happier.

Too often, happiness is postponed or made conditional. Many realize too late that happiness was always a choice.

6. I wish I had taken better care of my body.

In hindsight, people regret neglecting sleep, movement, nutrition, and stress management—especially when health declines.

7. I wish I had spent more time with my loved ones.

Beyond presence, it’s about quality—being fully available and engaged with the people who mattered most.

8. I wish I had traveled more.

Adventure, perspective, and joy were put off until “someday”—a day that never came for many.

9. I wish I had taken more risks.

People mourn the chances they didn’t take—whether changing careers, starting something new, or speaking their truth.

10. I wish I had been more grateful.

Gratitude often surfaces too late. Many realize they missed the beauty of the everyday moments by constantly wanting more.

11. I wish I had contributed more to others.

There’s a deep regret in not giving more time, wisdom, or compassion to those in need or to causes close to the heart.

12. I wish I had spent less time worrying.

Worry, it turns out, robs people of presence, peace, and joy. Most of what was feared never actually happened.

A Word to the Wise

Regret is a powerful teacher—but it doesn’t have to arrive at the end. These reflections are not just cautionary tales; they’re invitations. To live a life true to yourself. To prioritize what and who matters most. To express, to move, to breathe deeply, and to connect meaningfully.

Let these lessons guide your daily decisions—because vibrant living isn’t about perfection. It’s about alignment. And the sooner we align with what matters most, the fewer regrets we’ll carry later.

Time is passing, yes—but it’s also arriving. Every new moment is a chance to live fully, love freely, and shape a legacy worth remembering.