We all have regrets. So it’s important to find ways to deal with them — establish a refuge for ourselves, and face them without being overwhelmed.

In this meditation and talk from Wednesday, June 19, 2024, I offered seven practices for dealing with regrets, as well as a meditation on Finding Contentment and Releasing Craving (which also helps you deal with regrets!) You can scroll down to see an outline of the talk as well as the list of 7 practices for dealing with regrets.

I hope you find it helpful. You are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone!

Meditation:

Talk:

Here is the list of the 7 Practices for Dealing with Regrets:

1. Establish a refuge: Find a place or practice that brings you inner calm and helps you face your regrets without feeling overwhelmed by them.
2. Gain insight: Understand why you want to face your regrets and how it can benefit you in the long run.
3. Practice forgiveness: Forgive yourself for your mistakes and acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes.
4. Take responsibility: Accept responsibility for your actions and their consequences.
5. Learn from your mistakes: Use your regrets as an opportunity to learn and grow, and make positive changes in your life.
6. Practice self-compassion: Be kind and compassionate towards yourself, just as you would towards a friend who is going through a difficult time.
7. Let go: Once you have acknowledged your regrets, learned from them, and taken steps to make positive changes, it is important to let go and move forward. Focus on the present moment and the positive changes you have made.

Before jumping into my prepared remarks on regret, I also covered these topics:

• Understanding Contentment in Adversity
• Exploring Meditative Practices
• Cultivating Contentment Amid Challenges
• Addressing Physical and Emotional Pain
• Balancing Contentment with Healthy Desire and Productivity