Episode 166

166 - Turning Regrets into Opportunities

166 - Turning Regrets into Opportunities

We explore the topic of regrets and how we can deal with them in a positive and constructive way. One of the key things we discuss is reframing regrets and finding silver linings. Even when things don't go as planned, there are often positive aspects to be acknowledged. The concept of "at least" moments can help us shift our perspective and focus on the good in a situation.

Another important strategy is self-compassion. It's so important that we treat ourselves with the same kindness we would offer a friend. The idea of self-distancing can help us analyze our regrets from a third-person perspective and gain better insights for the future.

So, how can we use our regrets as catalysts for personal growth and improvement? We discuss the value of failure resumes, which serve as inventories of lessons learned from past mistakes. The importance of matching regrets with resolutions and adopting a journey mindset, viewing life as an adventure with ups and downs.

This episode provides you with practical strategies and perspectives to help you navigate and overcome your regrets in a positive and constructive way. Remember, it's okay to make mistakes, and not everything will go perfectly. Let's make peace with our regrets and focus on maximizing our important decisions.


https://www.danpink.com/the-power-of-regret/

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3771

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps

Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

About the Podcast

Show artwork for Start with Small Steps
Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

Listen for free

About your host

Profile picture for Jill McKinley

Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.