Regrets, I’ve had a few
Frank Sinatra
But then again too few to mention
I did what I had to do
I saw it through without exemption
Has your motivation waned as we emerge from this pandemic?
Mine has, as has, author Daniel Pink’s. In his new book, ‘The Power of Regret’ he tells us how we can use regrets to create a powerful life for our future.
Once upon a time when speaking of a future it would have been worth it to fast forward 10, 20 years. Today, it is preferable to take it one day at a time. At least it is for me. In Europe we may have some semblance of what we feel is ‘normalcy’, in many respects it is far from normal. The last 2 years, facing the mortality of so many people known to us a large part of our mind is occupied with concerns for the future.
Which renders tackling smaller, more short-term goals more manageable. In his book Daniel suggests the following;
- Small habits in the shorter term can lead to greater ramifications at a later time, when it may be too late to reverse. Or at least much harder. What are your habits now, are they on track to take you where you wish to be?
- We are more likely to regret what we did not do than what we did.
- Be wary of the decisions you make, make only those that align with your values. Ones that don’t can start to eat away at your own impression of self.
- Humans are social animals, focus on paying attention to creating and maintaining strong relationships.
Daniel offers his recommendations for leaders, such as creating psychologically safe work environments and building on a sense of belonging.
He urges business leaders to reflect on what really matters in life, whether they are speaking up, buildiing relationships, and moving towards the life they want to live.
You can read the rest of the interview of Daniel Pink by Management Today here.