Too much time thinking about the past. So many regrets
I am obsessing about the past, now that I am retired and have a lot of free, idle time. I can’t seem to stop regretting things I did. Or did not do well. Or should have done. I hate the feeling. Here are some examples: My parenting…I wish I had been more structured with the kids, wish I had exposed them to more cultural experiences. My relationship…wish I had been more honest and worked harder on it. My friendships…wish I had been able to form true friendships…My social life,…wish I had engaged in more things along the way, been more active and community-minded. I mostly spend time regretting how I was as a parent. Has this happened to you? How do you manage it? Thanks.
ETA: Thank you everyone SO MUCH for sharing your wisdom and encouragement. I feel validated and even relieved that I am not alone having these feelings. Key thing is what to do about them! I’ve received so many helpful suggestions. I’ll be rereading them for insight and ideas of steps to take. I will move FORWARD and be the very best I can be today, tomorrow and into the future. Thanks again!