23 answers
PV
Student
Pickerington, Ohio
6
Questions
Updated
2444 views
What do you regret in life?
Hey there, I was wondering what you regretted in your life such as misbehaving in class, not caring about certain oppurtinities that would've helped you with life, or even rejecting offers that were huge.
I'm going to 7th grade, and I just wanted to know if there's anything that I should not do, or should do. In addition to that, I also want to know people's experiences.
Login to comment
23 answers
Laura Gray
Sonography
12
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Laura’s Answer
If I could go back to school, the biggest “regrets” I’d focus on aren’t big dramatic mistakes. They’re small choices that add up over time.
One of the biggest things is not trying enough new things because of fear or embarrassment. A lot of people later wish they had joined the club, tried the sport, signed up for the activity, or raised their hand more often. You don’t have to be good at something to try it. School is actually the best time to be “bad” at things while you learn. Every experience teaches you something about yourself, even if you end up not liking it.
Another common regret is not taking school seriously early on. That doesn’t mean being perfect or stressed all the time. It just means building good habits now—turning things in on time, learning how to study, and actually paying attention when it matters. These small habits make high school so much easier later on.
Friendships are another big one. Some people look back and wish they had left toxic friendships sooner, or spoken up when something didn’t feel right. Pay attention to how people make you feel. Good friends don’t constantly bring drama or pressure you to be someone you’re not.
On the other hand, a lot of people regret caring too much about what others think. In school, everything feels like it’s being watched, but most people are focused on themselves. Confidence often comes from just doing things anyway, even when you feel awkward.
If I had to sum it up: try things without letting fear stop you, build good habits early, and choose people who make your life better—not more stressful.
And your mindset is already a strong one: try things at least once, and take things seriously when it matters. That balance will take you far.
One of the biggest things is not trying enough new things because of fear or embarrassment. A lot of people later wish they had joined the club, tried the sport, signed up for the activity, or raised their hand more often. You don’t have to be good at something to try it. School is actually the best time to be “bad” at things while you learn. Every experience teaches you something about yourself, even if you end up not liking it.
Another common regret is not taking school seriously early on. That doesn’t mean being perfect or stressed all the time. It just means building good habits now—turning things in on time, learning how to study, and actually paying attention when it matters. These small habits make high school so much easier later on.
Friendships are another big one. Some people look back and wish they had left toxic friendships sooner, or spoken up when something didn’t feel right. Pay attention to how people make you feel. Good friends don’t constantly bring drama or pressure you to be someone you’re not.
On the other hand, a lot of people regret caring too much about what others think. In school, everything feels like it’s being watched, but most people are focused on themselves. Confidence often comes from just doing things anyway, even when you feel awkward.
If I had to sum it up: try things without letting fear stop you, build good habits early, and choose people who make your life better—not more stressful.
And your mindset is already a strong one: try things at least once, and take things seriously when it matters. That balance will take you far.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
PV
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1100
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi PV:
I suppose one regret that I have had is that I stayed too long in jobs and in environments, which were basically dead ends, and were not helping me to achieve my life goals.
Sometimes I wonder what would have happened had I decided to exit those environments earlier and had moved on and into the ones that eventually assisted me to reach the goals that I had set for myself.
I got back on the correct path, later in life, but had lost a decade of my life by making the wrong choices, and listening to the wrong people.
From my personal experiences regret is something that stems from second-guessing your decisions or listening to the wrong people, rather than trusting your own intuition.
Here are some suggestions to assist you in your process:
#1. Move Past Second-Guessing
* Commit completely: Once a decision is made, dedicate your full energy to making it work.
* Stop overthinking: Second-guessing your choices, after the fact, does not offer any practical help.
* Prove it right: Commit to following through to show that your choice was a good decision. [
2. Trust Your Internal Instincts Over External Pressure
* Avoid subjective external advice: The reason that I spent eight years in an unwanted field, is because I followed the subjective opinions of others, instead of staying on the original path that I had planned for myself.
I hope these have been helpful, in assisting you in achieving your future goals. Best of Luck in your future career.
I suppose one regret that I have had is that I stayed too long in jobs and in environments, which were basically dead ends, and were not helping me to achieve my life goals.
Sometimes I wonder what would have happened had I decided to exit those environments earlier and had moved on and into the ones that eventually assisted me to reach the goals that I had set for myself.
I got back on the correct path, later in life, but had lost a decade of my life by making the wrong choices, and listening to the wrong people.
From my personal experiences regret is something that stems from second-guessing your decisions or listening to the wrong people, rather than trusting your own intuition.
Here are some suggestions to assist you in your process:
#1. Move Past Second-Guessing
* Commit completely: Once a decision is made, dedicate your full energy to making it work.
* Stop overthinking: Second-guessing your choices, after the fact, does not offer any practical help.
* Prove it right: Commit to following through to show that your choice was a good decision. [
2. Trust Your Internal Instincts Over External Pressure
* Avoid subjective external advice: The reason that I spent eight years in an unwanted field, is because I followed the subjective opinions of others, instead of staying on the original path that I had planned for myself.
I hope these have been helpful, in assisting you in achieving your future goals. Best of Luck in your future career.
Suzie Berry
6
Answers
Updated
Suzie’s Answer
In a few years, nobody will remember if you dropped the ball or messed up a line in a play. BUT they will remember how you made them feel, the fun things you did, and you'll regret the opportunities you passed up just because you were nervous.
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
311
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
I would have asked more questions to my elders who are no longer around. They had family history knowledge no one else ever had. I would also have started to ask more people "What would you do in my situation?" more often too. Be around and find positive peers to associate with. Join a sport, it makes for great camaraderie.
Edwina Mort
Office Manager
1
Answer
Harrogate, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Edwina’s Answer
Regrets are a great topic to explore. When I was young, I spent a lot of time with friends and playing sports. I didn't really know what I wanted to do when I grew up because I wasn't aware of all the options out there. Back then, there wasn't as much information available, and I didn't actively look for it.
As an adult, you realize you spend more time working than with family and friends. I wish I had found my true passion earlier to make the best career choice for myself. I do love my job, but I sometimes wonder if there's something I might enjoy even more.
Enjoy your time with friends, but remember, only you can shape your future. Volunteer when you can, learn from the adults around you, and pay attention to what's happening around you. Ask yourself if certain roles interest you, if you could do them better, or if you'd dislike doing them.
Figure out what you want and don't want to do in the future. Make the most of your education so you're in the best position to reach your goals. Good luck!
As an adult, you realize you spend more time working than with family and friends. I wish I had found my true passion earlier to make the best career choice for myself. I do love my job, but I sometimes wonder if there's something I might enjoy even more.
Enjoy your time with friends, but remember, only you can shape your future. Volunteer when you can, learn from the adults around you, and pay attention to what's happening around you. Ask yourself if certain roles interest you, if you could do them better, or if you'd dislike doing them.
Figure out what you want and don't want to do in the future. Make the most of your education so you're in the best position to reach your goals. Good luck!
Claxton Graham
Business Analyst
33
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Claxton’s Answer
One of my biggest regrets was not getting my degree in civil engineering, the major I originally studied in college. Because of an inability to grasp differential equations and a serious health issue, I ended up changing my major to communication, with an emphasis on mass communication (radio, television, etc). While many of my classmate had jobs lined up before they left college, it took me five months to find my first permanent job, with a small audiovisual production company and advertising agency, making much less money than most of my peers. I've worked in financial services for 32 years now, the last 28 of which doing analysis and design of business forms.
Though I'm not using my degree for what I intended - I really wanted to work in radio or television - a colleague of mine recently made me aware that I AM using my degree in my work. And for what I do, I make a pretty good living. Still, I'd rather be working on projects involving major infrastructure like freeways, airports, skyscrapers, and rail transport. They don't let you do that if you don't pass differential equations.
Though I'm not using my degree for what I intended - I really wanted to work in radio or television - a colleague of mine recently made me aware that I AM using my degree in my work. And for what I do, I make a pretty good living. Still, I'd rather be working on projects involving major infrastructure like freeways, airports, skyscrapers, and rail transport. They don't let you do that if you don't pass differential equations.
Thank you so much, Claxton!
PV
Andy Chu
Manager of Finance and Operations @ Chartbeat
1
Answer
Updated
Andy’s Answer
Hi PV, wow congratulations on going to 7th grade! I'm fortunate that I don't have any major life regrets but I guess one thing I wish I started doing sooner was building healthier habits around diet and fitness. Eating and sleeping poorly won't hurt you as much now because you're so young but I truly believe that discipline really is like a muscle that you have to practice and train consistently. So the habits you start now and keep up will have long lasting impact for the rest of your life.
I also strongly believe that if you're physically healthy, it translates to better mental performance and mental health. So if you're not doing so already, I hope you discover and play a sport / exercise that you enjoy. Being on a team or being invested in an activity with others will help you make more friends! And the more driven you are to improve in whatever the activity is, the more likely you are to build the habits surrounding it. I remember growing up that some days I used to be bored and look back feeling like I "wasted" my days... so I hope you take advantage of all the time and energy you have!
I also strongly believe that if you're physically healthy, it translates to better mental performance and mental health. So if you're not doing so already, I hope you discover and play a sport / exercise that you enjoy. Being on a team or being invested in an activity with others will help you make more friends! And the more driven you are to improve in whatever the activity is, the more likely you are to build the habits surrounding it. I remember growing up that some days I used to be bored and look back feeling like I "wasted" my days... so I hope you take advantage of all the time and energy you have!
Rose Blueu-Rose
Hospitality General Manager
3
Answers
Silver Spring, Maryland
Updated
Rose’s Answer
I sometimes wish I had taken the chance to follow my dream of becoming a singer. My shyness held me back, but I'm working on it now and making progress. I often think that if I had started pushing myself earlier, I might have lived my dream. But it's never too late, and I'm proud of the steps I'm taking today.
Steve Arsinoski
RVP Sales
8
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Steve’s Answer
The impact you have on people is the greatest currency there is! Be respectfully, and build relationships with people in every interaction. Life has challenges and there may be regrets but don't compromise on your character.
Anilkumar Hanchinal
Learning and Development
89
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Anilkumar’s Answer
When I think about my biggest regrets, they usually aren't about things I did. They're more about the things I didn't do because I was too scared or embarrassed.
Emily Proano
Medical assistant
45
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Emily’s Answer
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to stay curious and say yes to opportunities that genuinely interest you, even if they feel a little intimidating. Joining clubs, trying new activities, meeting new people, and asking questions can help you discover interests you didn’t know you had. I’d also encourage you to take school seriously, but don’t feel like you have to have your entire future figured out in seventh grade. One thing I wish I had learned earlier is that making mistakes is part of growing, and it’s okay if your interests change over time. Focus on being kind to others, working hard, and staying open to new experiences. Those habits will help you much more than trying to make every decision perfectly. Wishing you all the best as you start seventh grade!
Cliff Schreier
70
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
PV,
Things have changed SO much since I was your age. I agree with most all of the comments above - spending time talking with your older relatives is an important thing to do; while I did some of that I missed out on a lot.
If I were your age knowing what I know now, I would spend a good amount of time trying to think about what I wanted to do with my life. I would talk to a lot of people whose careers I might want to emulate. I would also try to do some shadowing: My son shadowed a doctor when he was in 5th grade and he's now a doctor - it was a very impactful experience for him.
I would also think about the kind of person I wanted to be. Everyone has amazing attributes: athletics, intelligence, empathy, etc. I would decide what my strengths are and think about how to leverage, enhance, and utilize these to be the person I want to be. There is so much 'noise' out there that influencers show about how great, beautiful, and wonderful THEY are - that is THEIR life and you need to decide what is best for YOUR life. Emulating someone you can never be is a waste of time.
It's been said: "Decide what you want on your tombstone and work backwards to make that a reality". That seems morbid to me, but it's another way to look at your life to make the most of things.
It's great that you're asking questions like this. You have a huge leg up on most people your age.
Good luck!
Things have changed SO much since I was your age. I agree with most all of the comments above - spending time talking with your older relatives is an important thing to do; while I did some of that I missed out on a lot.
If I were your age knowing what I know now, I would spend a good amount of time trying to think about what I wanted to do with my life. I would talk to a lot of people whose careers I might want to emulate. I would also try to do some shadowing: My son shadowed a doctor when he was in 5th grade and he's now a doctor - it was a very impactful experience for him.
I would also think about the kind of person I wanted to be. Everyone has amazing attributes: athletics, intelligence, empathy, etc. I would decide what my strengths are and think about how to leverage, enhance, and utilize these to be the person I want to be. There is so much 'noise' out there that influencers show about how great, beautiful, and wonderful THEY are - that is THEIR life and you need to decide what is best for YOUR life. Emulating someone you can never be is a waste of time.
It's been said: "Decide what you want on your tombstone and work backwards to make that a reality". That seems morbid to me, but it's another way to look at your life to make the most of things.
It's great that you're asking questions like this. You have a huge leg up on most people your age.
Good luck!
June Foster
Laboratory Tech Specialist
66
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
June’s Answer
That’s a great question, and I think it’s wise that you’re asking it before you get older.
One thing I regret is sometimes doubting myself. Looking back, I realize that growth happens by trying things, not by waiting until you feel completely confident.
I also wish I had worried less about what other people thought of me. In middle school and high school, it’s easy to think everyone is paying attention to what you’re doing, but as you get older, you realize most people are focused on themselves. Don’t let fear of embarrassment stop you from joining clubs, asking questions in class, or trying something new.
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to build good habits early. Study even when you don’t feel like it, be kind to people, treat your teachers with respect, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Those habits will take you much farther than being naturally “smart.” Work hard, but also make memories with your friends.
Remember that everyone makes mistakes—the important part is learning from them and continuing to grow.
One thing I regret is sometimes doubting myself. Looking back, I realize that growth happens by trying things, not by waiting until you feel completely confident.
I also wish I had worried less about what other people thought of me. In middle school and high school, it’s easy to think everyone is paying attention to what you’re doing, but as you get older, you realize most people are focused on themselves. Don’t let fear of embarrassment stop you from joining clubs, asking questions in class, or trying something new.
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to build good habits early. Study even when you don’t feel like it, be kind to people, treat your teachers with respect, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Those habits will take you much farther than being naturally “smart.” Work hard, but also make memories with your friends.
Remember that everyone makes mistakes—the important part is learning from them and continuing to grow.
Yang Chen
Finance
2
Answers
Allen, Texas
Updated
Yang’s Answer
Making major life decisions without fully understanding the pros and cons...
AI is absolutely changing that and will serve as a great thought partner to discuss your questions and help bridge any gaps
Fully explore the options and implications before commit to something that's hard to come back
AI is absolutely changing that and will serve as a great thought partner to discuss your questions and help bridge any gaps
Fully explore the options and implications before commit to something that's hard to come back
Matthew Byrne
Product Architect
7
Answers
Harrogate, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
If I had to pick one minor regret in life, it would be not taking more photos with my older relatives, as those captured moments with them are irreplaceable. However, outside of that small longing, I truly live with no major regrets. Mistakes happen in life, but it is how we deal with them and grow from them that actually matters. For me, every single choice and misstep has paved the exact path to where I am today. If I had altered even one minor detail in my past, the butterfly effect might have prevented me from attending the university where I met my wife, which in turn means our incredible children wouldn't be here. Because my history—mistakes and all—is directly responsible for the beautiful family I cherish today, I look back on my journey with complete gratitude and absolutely no regrets.
Valerie Buxeron
Project Manager
11
Answers
Little Elm, Texas
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
I don't know that I have a 'regret' per se. But I do have something that I would have done differently. In high school I really didn't ever study. I got all As and Bs and was in the National Honor Society. The material came easy to me and I really didn't work very hard at it. Because of that, I never built up any good study habits - which became very apparent when I entered college. I really struggled initially because I didn't know how to effectively budget my time and study.
Sandra Ruiz Teruel
Product Manager
2
Answers
Granada, Andalusia, Spain
Updated
Sandra’s Answer
Looking back, my biggest regrets almost never come from things I actually did; they come from the things I didn't do because I was scared or embarrassed.
I think about the clubs I didn’t join, the changes I didn't accept/make, the questions I didn’t ask because I thought they sounded stupid, and the times I stayed quiet instead of standing up for something, all just because I was worried about what other people might think.
I think about the clubs I didn’t join, the changes I didn't accept/make, the questions I didn’t ask because I thought they sounded stupid, and the times I stayed quiet instead of standing up for something, all just because I was worried about what other people might think.
Jonathan Love
Tax Consultant
8
Answers
Lakewood, Ohio
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
Hi PV,
Great question! Here's a quick answer for you. Since you're still young, my best advice is to enjoy this time in your life.
Hang out with friends, laugh a lot, and make great memories. Don't stress too much about things. Of course, do your best in school, but remember that being a good person and making the right choices will lead to good outcomes.
Also, it's important to learn from your mistakes. Everyone makes them, especially when they're young. If you learn from each one, you'll become an even better person.
Hope this helps!
Great question! Here's a quick answer for you. Since you're still young, my best advice is to enjoy this time in your life.
Hang out with friends, laugh a lot, and make great memories. Don't stress too much about things. Of course, do your best in school, but remember that being a good person and making the right choices will lead to good outcomes.
Also, it's important to learn from your mistakes. Everyone makes them, especially when they're young. If you learn from each one, you'll become an even better person.
Hope this helps!
John Graham
Music Producer
92
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hey PV - Good Question!
One thing about life is that all your experiences lead you to where you are now, so if you're happy now - you should have no regrets - and I have to say that I'm happy now.
That said, there are some things I wish I had done differently:
I wish I had stayed in touch with my school friends after leaving school. People move away, change their names, and it makes it difficult to find them later. There are several people I felt close with in school that I haven't been able to find later in life - and that's a missed opportunity.
I probably should not have gotten romantically involved at such an early age - because in my case those early relationships didn't work out and I really wasn't mature or financially prepared enough to make those commitments. If I'd let things happen at a more leisurely pace, my personal life may have been more successful, and sooner in the larger scheme of things. My wife and I just celebrated our 41'st anniversary - and I'm her third spouse, she's my fourth.
On the flip side there is one thing I did right, and that was to never give up on what truly gives me joy - making music. Even though there were times I had to put being a musician on the back burner for employment and bringing home a paycheck - in the end I was able to do it full time and I still am.
Good luck on your journey - you're going to do great!
One thing about life is that all your experiences lead you to where you are now, so if you're happy now - you should have no regrets - and I have to say that I'm happy now.
That said, there are some things I wish I had done differently:
I wish I had stayed in touch with my school friends after leaving school. People move away, change their names, and it makes it difficult to find them later. There are several people I felt close with in school that I haven't been able to find later in life - and that's a missed opportunity.
I probably should not have gotten romantically involved at such an early age - because in my case those early relationships didn't work out and I really wasn't mature or financially prepared enough to make those commitments. If I'd let things happen at a more leisurely pace, my personal life may have been more successful, and sooner in the larger scheme of things. My wife and I just celebrated our 41'st anniversary - and I'm her third spouse, she's my fourth.
On the flip side there is one thing I did right, and that was to never give up on what truly gives me joy - making music. Even though there were times I had to put being a musician on the back burner for employment and bringing home a paycheck - in the end I was able to do it full time and I still am.
Good luck on your journey - you're going to do great!
Tiarra Hill
Teacher
58
Answers
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Tiarra’s Answer
Hi PV,
I want to say that I am proud of you for re-evaluating your priorities and behavior choices. It is absolutely not too late to make some changes that will aid you in the present and future. Now I have broken away from people who influenced me to misbehave. In 8th grade, I experienced my first heartbreak, and I realized that I acted out and spoke out of turn to impress someone I was not meant to be with. I regret acting out in my last grades in elementary school and my first two grades in middle school to impress my "friends." I have memories of that embarrassment, but I have changed, and I do not even have any contact with most of the people I grew up with, not because of any animosity, but we grew up and took our separate paths in life.
In 8th grade, bullying and heartbreak led me to re-evaluate myself. I've always been an introvert, always gotten good grades, but now I'm going to think about myself. I remained helpful to my classmates, but I became more reserved and focused on my schoolwork. I asked teachers questions that may pique their curiosity. For example, ask a history teacher something about history that may make them think or at least engage in a conversation with you. Do this with multiple teachers, but you should really invest in these interactions; this is a good way to repair their perception of you. For example, I asked my English teacher, "Who was Jim Crow?" She began explaining the institution of de jure segregation and Jim Crow laws, but I knew that, and I said, "Where did the name come from?" She was stumped but also interested. She actually did some research and found out the origin; it was a learning moment for both of us.
Actually begin completing coursework and homework. Please attend tutoring sessions and begin telling your teachers and classmates/friends that you are thinking ahead to 8th grade and beyond.
A little insight into 8th grade: you will be facing your last year of middle school, and teachers will begin asking you to plan your schedule for your first year of high school. In high school, you will be asked about your future goals. Begin thinking about your interests now. Please begin refining your skills now to achieve a true turnaround in your grades, writing, and other skills. High school and adulthood will be here in no time. I am so proud of you again for making this change. Have a great school year.
I want to say that I am proud of you for re-evaluating your priorities and behavior choices. It is absolutely not too late to make some changes that will aid you in the present and future. Now I have broken away from people who influenced me to misbehave. In 8th grade, I experienced my first heartbreak, and I realized that I acted out and spoke out of turn to impress someone I was not meant to be with. I regret acting out in my last grades in elementary school and my first two grades in middle school to impress my "friends." I have memories of that embarrassment, but I have changed, and I do not even have any contact with most of the people I grew up with, not because of any animosity, but we grew up and took our separate paths in life.
In 8th grade, bullying and heartbreak led me to re-evaluate myself. I've always been an introvert, always gotten good grades, but now I'm going to think about myself. I remained helpful to my classmates, but I became more reserved and focused on my schoolwork. I asked teachers questions that may pique their curiosity. For example, ask a history teacher something about history that may make them think or at least engage in a conversation with you. Do this with multiple teachers, but you should really invest in these interactions; this is a good way to repair their perception of you. For example, I asked my English teacher, "Who was Jim Crow?" She began explaining the institution of de jure segregation and Jim Crow laws, but I knew that, and I said, "Where did the name come from?" She was stumped but also interested. She actually did some research and found out the origin; it was a learning moment for both of us.
Actually begin completing coursework and homework. Please attend tutoring sessions and begin telling your teachers and classmates/friends that you are thinking ahead to 8th grade and beyond.
A little insight into 8th grade: you will be facing your last year of middle school, and teachers will begin asking you to plan your schedule for your first year of high school. In high school, you will be asked about your future goals. Begin thinking about your interests now. Please begin refining your skills now to achieve a true turnaround in your grades, writing, and other skills. High school and adulthood will be here in no time. I am so proud of you again for making this change. Have a great school year.
Frank Pconka
Deal Desk
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Frank’s Answer
When I look back to when I was in 7th grade, I cant say I thought as deeply about my future as you have, which means you are already a step in the right direction. A few of my biggest regrets are:
1) Not having enough confidence in myself. This is a key factor in your personal growth and development. It may sound cheesy, but you truly can accomplish what ever you put your mind to. Find something that lights a fire in you, and with that will come confidence and keep you interested in learning more. Tell yourself you can, and never speak negatively about yourself. We all make mistakes, but nothing teaches you more in life than making a mistake, correcting it, and learning from it.
2) Not taking my career path seriously when I was younger. Life comes at you fast. You're in 7th grade now, but before you know it, you will be graduating college and out in the open world, which can be scary, especially if you don't prepare yourself. Make connections, take time to talk to people you may not have talked to in your regular day to day life, you never know what valuable lessons you can learn from someone elses experiences.
3) Write things down! What do I mean by this? When I was in college, I was in multiple career development classes. We would have executives, High level sales associates, and other employees come in to talk with our class. I made multiple great connections, had a few people come to me and say they were impressed with my answers and would love to chat when I graduate. I didnt get their contact info, I thought to myself "Wow Ill never forget this experience and Ill make sure to reach out when the time comes!" When I graduated, I couldnt find most of the information they gave me, and never got in contact with those people I already built connections with. I regret this to this day. Write things down, take business cards and save them in a special place, and stay in contact with the connections you make. Like anything in life, the more organized you are, the more successful you will be.
4) Never let yourself feel "Stuck". You are young, and you are still young when you're 30 like me. If you gave something a shot, and it isnt for you, don't trap yourself. Explore opportunities until you find one you can see yourself at for the long term. Its much easier to do these things earlier on in life, so don't mentally trap yourself at a place you are not comfortable with. You will work for the majority of your life, do something you enjoy.
1) Not having enough confidence in myself. This is a key factor in your personal growth and development. It may sound cheesy, but you truly can accomplish what ever you put your mind to. Find something that lights a fire in you, and with that will come confidence and keep you interested in learning more. Tell yourself you can, and never speak negatively about yourself. We all make mistakes, but nothing teaches you more in life than making a mistake, correcting it, and learning from it.
2) Not taking my career path seriously when I was younger. Life comes at you fast. You're in 7th grade now, but before you know it, you will be graduating college and out in the open world, which can be scary, especially if you don't prepare yourself. Make connections, take time to talk to people you may not have talked to in your regular day to day life, you never know what valuable lessons you can learn from someone elses experiences.
3) Write things down! What do I mean by this? When I was in college, I was in multiple career development classes. We would have executives, High level sales associates, and other employees come in to talk with our class. I made multiple great connections, had a few people come to me and say they were impressed with my answers and would love to chat when I graduate. I didnt get their contact info, I thought to myself "Wow Ill never forget this experience and Ill make sure to reach out when the time comes!" When I graduated, I couldnt find most of the information they gave me, and never got in contact with those people I already built connections with. I regret this to this day. Write things down, take business cards and save them in a special place, and stay in contact with the connections you make. Like anything in life, the more organized you are, the more successful you will be.
4) Never let yourself feel "Stuck". You are young, and you are still young when you're 30 like me. If you gave something a shot, and it isnt for you, don't trap yourself. Explore opportunities until you find one you can see yourself at for the long term. Its much easier to do these things earlier on in life, so don't mentally trap yourself at a place you are not comfortable with. You will work for the majority of your life, do something you enjoy.
John Graham
Music Producer
92
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hey PV - Good Question!
One thing about life is that all your experiences lead you to where you are now, so if you're happy now - you should have no regrets - and I have to say that I'm happy now.
That said, there are some things I wish I had done differently:
I wish I had stayed in touch with my school friends after leaving school. People move away, change their names, and it makes it difficult to find them later. There are several people I felt close with in school that I haven't been able to find later in life - and that's a missed opportunity.
I probably should not have gotten romantically involved at such an early age - because in my case those early relationships didn't work out and I really wasn't mature or financially prepared enough to make those commitments. If I'd let things happen at a more leisurely pace, my personal life may have been more successful, and sooner in the larger scheme of things. My wife and I just celebrated our 41'st anniversary - and I'm her third spouse, and she's my fourth.
On the flip side there is one thing I did right, and that was to never give up on what truly gives me joy - making music. Even though there were times I had to put being a musician on the back burner for employment and bringing home a paycheck - in the end I was able to do it full time and I still am.
Good luck on your journey - you're going to do great!
One thing about life is that all your experiences lead you to where you are now, so if you're happy now - you should have no regrets - and I have to say that I'm happy now.
That said, there are some things I wish I had done differently:
I wish I had stayed in touch with my school friends after leaving school. People move away, change their names, and it makes it difficult to find them later. There are several people I felt close with in school that I haven't been able to find later in life - and that's a missed opportunity.
I probably should not have gotten romantically involved at such an early age - because in my case those early relationships didn't work out and I really wasn't mature or financially prepared enough to make those commitments. If I'd let things happen at a more leisurely pace, my personal life may have been more successful, and sooner in the larger scheme of things. My wife and I just celebrated our 41'st anniversary - and I'm her third spouse, and she's my fourth.
On the flip side there is one thing I did right, and that was to never give up on what truly gives me joy - making music. Even though there were times I had to put being a musician on the back burner for employment and bringing home a paycheck - in the end I was able to do it full time and I still am.
Good luck on your journey - you're going to do great!
Valerie Buxeron
Project Manager
11
Answers
Little Elm, Texas
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
If I could go back, I would change how I approached studying in high school. The classes were easy for me, so I got good grades without much effort. But because I didn't study hard, I never learned how to manage my time or study well. This made college tough. However, this experience showed me how important good study habits are, and I learned a lot from it.