To live a meaningful, fulfilling life, it is essential to acknowledge the inevitable end, says Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, a specialist in internal medicine. Through her experiences caring for hospitalized patients, Dr. Ungerleider has identified common regrets among individuals approaching the end of their lives.
Regrets Near the End
While facing mortality, people often express the following regrets
1.
Not spending enough time with loved ones
2.
Working excessively and missing out on life
3.
Letting fear dictate decisions and avoiding risks
4.
Wishing for greater bravery when faced with uncertainty or opportunities
5.
Being too focused on the future and losing touch with the present
Dr. Ungerleider's advice for avoiding these regrets is to recognize the limited and unpredictable nature of time and regularly reflect on life's fundamental questions. She emphasizes the importance of young individuals engaging in this introspection early on to lead long, healthy lives filled with quality.
Living Without Regrets
Dr. Ungerleider recommends maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and steering clear of harmful habits like smoking and engaging in risky behaviors. She highlights the significance of reflecting on mortality at every stage of life as a means to enhance daily living with greater meaning and purpose.
Acknowledging mortality is a pathway to finding joy in the simple pleasures, as noted by author Alua Arthur and end-of-life planning expert. Grounding oneself in the awareness of mortality allows appreciation for mundane sensory experiences and the marvel of everyday life.
'Happiness is a Choice'
Dr. Ungerleider's insights align with the observations of oncologist Siddhartha Mukherjee and author Bronnie Ware. Mukherjee stresses the importance of expressing love and forgiveness without delay, as waiting only prolongs the inevitable. Ware's work underscores the regret of not living authentically and choosing happiness as a conscious decision rather than being bound by old patterns.
In conclusion, embracing mortality and addressing regrets pave the way for a fulfilling life. It is crucial to live intentionally, fostering relationships, and prioritizing joy over material pursuits. Join CNBC's online course this fall to master budgeting, debt reduction, and wealth accumulation. Utilize code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount valid until September 30, 2024. Subscribe to CNBC Make It's newsletter for additional tips on achieving success in all aspects of life.