The most common regret among those nearing life's end is not living a life true to themselves, but the realization that they lived according to others' expectations.
When people realize their time is short, they see clearly how many dreams remained unfulfilled – not due to circumstance, but to their own choices.
This regret points to something profound: living authentically requires courage.
It's easier to follow the path others have laid out for us than to forge our own. The expectations of family, friends, and society can act like invisible chains, keeping us bound to lives that don't reflect our true selves.
The solution isn't to abandon all responsibilities or relationships but to cultivate the bravery to acknowledge our genuine desires and take small steps toward them.
Sometimes this means having difficult conversations. Other times, it means making decisions that others might not understand.
Consider the dreams you’ve put aside to meet others' expectations, and consider how you’ll feel about them on your deathbed.