Success is built on a foundation of lessons learned from mistakes; don’t shy away from your mistakes—own them.
Think of your career like a book: every mistake is just a plot twist that adds depth to your story. We all have moments when we look back and think, “What if I had done things differently?” Whether it’s a failed project, a missed promotion, a layoff, or a resignation you handled poorly, career regrets can weigh heavily on your mind. But instead of letting those moments haunt you, what if you could transform them into stepping stones for growth?
I know the feeling all too well. There was a time when I couldn’t shake the regret over a past mistake. I replayed it in my head, thinking of all the wrong decisions I had made. Days blurred into weeks, and I found myself losing over 4,320 hours stuck in a mental loop. I wasn’t learning, growing, or moving forward. Instead, I was fixated on the negative. Sound familiar?
Here’s what I learned through this process: Regrets are just lessons we haven’t embraced yet.
As life progresses, it continues to teach us the same lessons until we fully absorb them. If you find yourself facing similar challenges or failures in your career repeatedly, it may be a sign that there’s something important left to learn.
Regrets vs. Lessons
Contrary to popular belief, regret isn’t inherently bad. In fact, a small dose of regret can be a powerful motivator. A study by Psychology Today suggests that regret helps us gain clarity, providing valuable insights into what truly matters to us and helping us course-correct in the future. It’s when regret lingers and clouds our ability to move forward that it becomes a problem.
One of my favorite quotes from Omar Itani sums this up perfectly:
“To have some regrets is normal and healthy. It helps you make sense of the world, gain insight into what matters to you, and avoid future negative behaviors.”
But how do you transform regret into action? How do you turn career mistakes into meaningful lessons that propel you toward growth? Let’s break it down.
How to Deal With Career Regret and Learn From It
1. Acceptance is Key
The first step to overcoming regret is acceptance. Denial only prolongs the pain, keeping you stuck in a cycle of blame and “what-ifs.” When you acknowledge and accept your mistakes, you regain control of the narrative. Rather than being weighed down by the past, you start focusing on the solutions and lessons those experiences offer.
In my case, once I accepted the reality of my situation, I was able to shift my focus from regret to learning, setting the stage for personal and professional growth.
2. Seek Guidance from Mentors
Navigating regret alone can be overwhelming. That’s why seeking advice from someone more experienced can be invaluable. Mentors and senior professionals have often been where you are and can offer perspective you hadn’t considered.
I remember feeling regretful about a failed project and speaking to two industry mentors. Both of them had similar stories and shared how they bounced back. This not only motivated me but also gave me the tools I needed to move forward with confidence. Sometimes, hearing that you’re not alone in your struggles can make all the difference.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Move On
Sometimes, career regrets stem from staying too long in a job or environment that no longer serves you. While change can feel daunting, it’s often necessary for growth. I came across a piece of advice from a young millionaire on a YouTube video that stuck with me: “Flexibility and taking risks are key to success.”
If you’re in a toxic work environment or your current role no longer aligns with your values, it’s okay to leave. I knew someone who was criticized for quitting her job at a toxic company. People told her she should have “stuck it out.” But instead of regretting her decision, she used that experience to learn how to spot toxicity in future workplaces, ultimately setting herself up for a healthier, more fulfilling career.
Moving on doesn’t mean failure; it means prioritizing your well-being and aligning your career with your true values.
4. Reframe Regret as a Learning Opportunity
The key takeaway is this: regrets only hold power when we fail to learn from them. Every career misstep is an opportunity to gain wisdom. Whether it’s handling conflict, improving time management, or setting better boundaries, each failure comes with a lesson.
Next time you feel the weight of regret, ask yourself: What can I learn from this?
The more you reframe mistakes as learning opportunities, the less power they have to hold you back.
Common Career Regrets and How to Overcome Them
1. Staying in the Wrong Job Too Long
Many people regret not leaving a job sooner. Maybe the role was unfulfilling, or the work environment was toxic, yet they stayed because it felt safe. The solution? Trust your gut. When you start feeling stuck, take it as a sign to explore new opportunities.
2. Not Taking Risks
Regret over missed opportunities can linger for years. Whether it’s turning down a promotion because you felt unprepared or not starting that side business, the fear of failure can hold you back. Remember, risks often lead to growth. It’s better to take a chance and fail than to live with the “what-ifs.”
3. Ignoring Work-Life Balance
Another common regret is neglecting personal life for career success. The burnout that comes from overworking often leads to regret. Balance is key to long-term happiness and career fulfillment. Set boundaries and prioritize time for yourself, your family, and your hobbies.
4. Focusing Too Much on Money
Chasing high-paying jobs at the expense of your passion can lead to disillusionment. Yes, financial security is important, but aligning your work with your values and passion will lead to deeper, more lasting fulfillment.
To be honest, regret doesn’t have to be a burden. It can be the very thing that propels you toward growth, success, and fulfillment. The key is to shift your mindset and embrace the lessons that come with every mistake. Remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the ups and downs, and trust that every misstep brings you one step closer to the career—and life—you’ve always dreamed of.