Regrets can be crippling. I’m not talking about wishing I had purchased a lottery ticket, because that really doesn’t relate to me. I don’t buy them. I’m not talking about speeding tickets or parking tickets, both of which I have had my share and quickly paid. Yet, to some people, they have these regrets.

In life, it often seems like the most inconsequential decisions are laden with consequences. Somehow one thing leads to another and one small decision leads us down a track of irrevocable regret. It sucks. One blown taillight has led to many people being incarcerated. What I find sad is that many of those people will focus their regret on not changing the bulb, or on shifting the blame to somone else, like the officer, rather than regretting the larger action for which the  consequences are issued. No, my friend, you did not get a DUI for a taillight. You got pulled over so that the officer could make sure you were aware that your light was out so that you don’t get rear-ended later. Perhaps if you weren’t swerving, that could have changed things, but why not focus on the real issue: You got behind the wheel when you shouldn’t have.

I’m not judging. I’m just using it as an example, but for those adults out there that like to make excuses for themselves I can put it another way. If you can count to one, you can go out and have fun without having any issues. One libation each hour and you should be good to go. This isn’t about drinking, so I’ll get back to my real point.

You can live your life and focus on what didn’t happen, blaming others for what happened or didn’t, or you can take ownership of what is happening and what is about to happen. You don’t need to take my advice, but if you settle for your regrets, you will be forfeiting a lot of amazing opportunities and simply watch life pass by, as if separated by glass.

Make amends, even if it is with yourself. You can only arrive at the future you desire if you give up the past and its imperfections. Live now and enjoy the ride.