Many of us have heard of “Post Traumatic Stress” but consider becoming familiar with “Post Traumatic Growth.” Some define it as the notion that a horrible event can actually make you stronger and better person.
It turns out, according to a nurse who interviewed dying patients and recorded their answers in a blog and a book, the top-5 deathbed regrets actually inversely mirror the top-5 benefits reported by those who’ve experienced post traumatic growth. In other words, if you incorporate this “post traumatic growth” mindset into your life, you can one day die with with less regrets.
Top-5 deathbed regrets:
1.) I wish I hadn’t worked so hard
2.) I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends
3.) I wish I had let myself be happier
4.) I wish I had the courage to express my true self
5.) I wish I lived a life true to my dreams instead of what others expected of me.
Top benefits of post-traumatic growth:
1.) My priorities have changed
2.) Im not afraid to do what makes me happy
3.) I feel closer to my friends and family
4.) I understand myself better
5.) I know who I really am now
6.) I have a new sense of meaning and purpose in my life
7.) I’m better able to focus on my goals and dreams.
If you’re reading this, you’re alive, and that means you have the ability today to start erasing those future regrets so they never manifest.
A breakup with an former lover can end up being the best thing that ever happened to you when you meet a new mate. An injury can derail your heath and fitness goals but wind up teaching you new techniques you otherwise wouldn’t have explored. It’s not about finding the silver lining, it’s about utilizing the traumatic event as fuel to become stronger – or more well rounded, or more mature, etc.
For more information about post-traumatic growth, click the links below.
Sources: http://www.ted.com/talks/jane_mcgonigal_the_game_that_can_give_you_10_extra_years_of_life.html; http://www.inspirationandchai.com/Regrets-of-the-Dying.html