I am not a fan of regrets – for many reasons. It is so much easier to objectively criticize a choice we made, an action we took or did not take, a delayed decision, a missed commitment – in hindsight. Regret can cloak us in disappointment, anger, remorse or guilt. None of these benefit ourselves or those who interact with us. It can also be a cop-out from taking responsibility.

On the contrary, I am a huge fan of lifelong learning. This is acquired through many means: reading or listening to thought leaders; observing others’ successes and asking them for ideas or modeling their actions; formal education and accreditation; and by seeking and acting upon feedback from trusted advisors or colleagues. This applies equally to our personal and professional lives.

A client recently provided me with this observation about his customers,

“Lorraine, all of these companies are doing well, generating consistent revenues and profitability, employing people for long periods of time, satisfying their customers. But the ones that are on fire all utilize external trusted advisors. It is the common attribute of the most highly successful companies in this cohort.”

Don’t fear making mistakes; they are seldom fatal.

Make 1 positive change.

Don’t shy away from taking an honest look at your missteps; they may be the stepping-stones to innovation.

Seek honest feedback. Feeling courageous? Ask your spouse or children.

Follow those who inspire you.

Get a mentor. Hire an advisor.

Complete an accreditation.

Admit mistakes. Humility is empowering for you and appealing to others. As a leader, parent, role model or friend, when you admit you were wrong, not only will you feel better – you elevate others. When you allow yourself to be less than perfect, you free up others to be their best selves.

Pick up any heavy weight of guilt, regret, shame or remorse, and lift it up and off your shoulders. Set it down. Take a deep breath. Smile. Move on.

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