What’s the one decision you’ve regretted the most so far?
Is there something you feel you missed and if you could go back, would you make the same decision, or choose differently?
I’ve only recently started my professional journey, working at a startup that builds an app. I don’t have a long or glamorous career yet, nor a lot of experience. But one thing I do regret is not trying to work earlier, and instead spending most of my time buried in academic studies.
When I finally entered the workplace, I realized that much of what I learned in school was no longer aligned with the market or the speed at which things evolve. The job required soft skills that textbooks and theory never taught. I learned quickly that without self-learning and constant adaptation, it’s easy to fall behind.
For a long time, I regretted not being brave or confident enough to explore my own path sooner. I simply followed a “standard formula” designed for the majority, rather than trusting myself to figure things out differently.
That said, I feel very lucky now. I’ve found happiness and meaning in the work I’m doing. I genuinely care about mental health, emotions, and human behavior and I want to support young people in building better, healthier lives. That’s how I found my way to my current company. We’re a small team, wearing many hats, but I feel fulfilled every day knowing that what we’re building could help a lot of people in the future.
What has your journey been like? Would really appreciate some inspiration 😊
Replies
I regret saying yes too often early on. I chased stability instead of curiosity. But those choices showed me what I didn't want, which mattered just as much. Today, I'm more intentional and that clarity came from those early missteps.
Murror
@justice_ojoka I believe that all your choices have a reason, and will teach you a lesson. Love it Justice🫶🏻
WOV
My decision to give up on my higher studies.
I have always dreamt of doing higher studies in NUS - but, life took a different path.
If I'm to go back - I would definitely push myself to pursue that dream and make it happen
Murror
@indu_thangamuthu So, are you following your dreams now? I think you could continue your higher studies at present
WOV
@monatruong_murror At the moment, no. Work and family takes most of my time ~ And leaving them for studies is not something my parents are ready for.
@indu_thangamuthu I can relate to you. Ever since I started my undergraduate studies, I dreamed of pursuing post-graduation. Over time, though, I chose a different path. While I don’t regret that decision, seeing my peers go on to do it sometimes makes me feel like I’m missing out. If given the opportunity, I would definitely pursue it.
WOV
Same, @rashiaroraofficial . When my cousins go abroad for studies or for job, I feel angry on myself. It's been ages but still, the feel remains the same. I even avoid speaking to them or to their parents just to avoid hearing them speaking about the life they are enjoying, which I dreamt of and is missing, And sadly, it's only me who is missing my dream. - Harsh truth of reality and people : "People will do all it takes to not let you pursue your dreams because the 'you' in their life is more than enough for them. They are not ready to accept the reality of you disturbing their reality, by you pursuing your dreams or growing."
Murror
@bekjon_ibragimov How about now, are you ready to accept the risks and invest in something?
Murror
@bekjon_ibragimov As I mentioned in the post above, I sometimes wish I had started working earlier while I was still studying. I believe I could have developed faster. At the time, fear held me back: fear of not having enough experience and fear of making mistakes.
Now, I feel at peace with my decision to start working instead of continuing my studies. That said, I do plan to pursue higher education again when I truly feel it’s necessary
For me, the biggest regret was waiting for permission. I delayed decisions until I felt "ready," which never really came. If I could go back, I'd trust my instincts sooner. Still, every step taught me something I now use daily.
Murror
@nafsiyya_ubalawan Yeh we’re usually afraid of failure so we don’t take action. Sooner or later, you have realized it and made the decision.
My biggest regret was being afraid of failing publicly. I played it safe for years. Looking back, I wish I'd tried more things sooner. Still, the slow start gave me patience and empathy I wouldn't trade now.
Murror
@morgan_nabors All your scare is just in your mind. And if you don’t take action, you never break your great. I’m happy because you dare to step out of your comfort zone, Just take it slow🌱
I regret not prioritizing people over titles earlier. I focused on achievement, not relationships. Eventually, I learned that growth comes faster when you learn from others. That shift completely changed how I work and how fulfilled I feel.
Murror
@jusiy_waller I understand what you said. And I don’t think the value of a person not actually come from the famous or titles, but comes from the value as kindness, always willing to help, polite and respect you. I hope this change will help you meet better people and go further in your career.🙌🏼
Honestly, I regret underestimating myself. I waited too long to believe I had something valuable to offer. Once I stopped comparing my timeline to others, things began to move. Confidence didn't appear first, action created it.
Murror
@grayson_carter3 I feel you Grayson. Actually I’ve been like you until I realized that if I appreciate my self, others will do the same. Keep moving forward ❤️
The right investment plan is the best way to grow your hard earned money. I started investing late, and now I regret that I didn’t invest earlier.