I wish I had done that

Ha ha ha. What a recurring phenomenon in our lives. We do it I think, on a daily basis. Especially once we cross 40. There are regrets about what we didn’t do, what we did, our studies, our career choices and very often our choice about our spouse.

There are, in my mind, three types of ‘I Wish’. One is when we genuinely realize that we did not take advantage of an opportunity that was before us. Second, when somebody we know goes ahead and does something, which we have been thinking about. Then we say I wish I had done that. Third, and the most dangerous type is when others achieve something and you say I wish I had better luck, and then I could have done that. You blame your luck, your family and in general, others.

Which category do you fall under? Most of us, at one point of time or the other fall under the first type. We realize our mistakes and wish we could have done otherwise. Most of us fall under the second type. But here again, there is a difference. One is that you say I wish I’d done that but it spurs you on. It motivates you. So you take risks that you have been avoiding and you make some tough choices about following your dreams. Second, you feel envious. Now is the time to beware. If you let this dominate your thought process, it will lead you to type three.

That is the most comfortable place to be. I have not been able to achieve much because I didn’t have the luck or the opportunities the other person had. Then you can soak in your self-pity and bask in your self-denial. Then blame your miserable existence on others.

Obviously, if you have not achieved certain heights, it's not going to happen overnight now. But one can always make a small beginning. Whatever you field may be, there is always a second chance if you now recognize and not let go. Tell yourself that this time you will take the risk you didn’t take earlier or  change course or start something new.

But one thing is sure. I wish is not going to get you anywhere. Your action is. Let others say I wish I had done that after seeing you.

So be it!!!

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