What A Wonderful Life I’ve Had!

Written and narrated by Leigh Martinuzzi 

“What a wonderful life I’ve had! I only wish I’d realized it sooner.” Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

If only I’d realised it soon er. Regret is one thing I fear the most. According to the research of Bonnie Ware, as she worked alongside the dying as a palliative nurse, the common theme amongst them was regret. What’s interesting as you analyse the regrets is that most of them were avoidable.  Things that were available however weren’t appreciated, enjoyed more or lived in alignment with.

Regret five was, “I wish I let myself be happier.” Regret two was, “I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.” It seems that we have the greatest regret for things that are within our control. Back to Sidonie’s quote, life is wonderful we only need to realise this. There are many things for us to be grateful towards in everyday life and yet we miss out on the true joy as we attach ourselves to our desires and chase for expectations that in large part our out of reach and even outside our control.

Life disappears in the wake created by our frantic journey towards all that isn’t there instead of enjoying everything that is. At our funeral, regret means nothing. Others may celebrate the life that we lived even if we didn’t celebrate it ourselves as fully as we could have.

Life is wonderful and the time to realise this is now. We need to hold on to those we love. Breathe in and savour every precious moment. Avoid with a conscious effort to forebode the joy. Live as we truly desire and aligned with our values. Work more on our passions and doing good for others than working tirelessly on that which matters very little. Detach from our desires. Don’t wait for tomorrow in the escape of today. Right now, is what matters the most.

Further Reading and Resources 

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The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

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Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.