An Ode To Having No Regrets

How many people have you met that have said "We were going to go on a cruise but...." or "We always wanted to go to Paris but...." or "I thought about it and I wanted to but..."?

If I had a dollar for the times I've heard these and similar statements, I wouldn't need to work another day in my life.  But this isn't about that - its about living a life with no regrets.

My husband, Michael Ray, died one week ago today.  I'm devastated and it's hard.  But - and it's a big "but" - I can honestly say I have no regrets.  In 25 years, no regrets about things we did or didn't say and definitely about the things we did or didn't do.  

My husband and I traveled to over 60 countries and sailed to various places around the world more than 60 times.  We had adventures that most people only dream of.  Did we sacrifice to do that?  Actually no - because we knew that our number one passion was seeing the world.  The accumulation of "stuff" meant nothing to us - we lived simply.  We didn't need new cars, new furniture, or junk to fill up the house, because we were busy filling our hearts, minds and souls with the sights and sounds of people and places around the world.  We did not allow ourselves to be caught up in the "we shouldn't" mentality - instead, we convinced ourselves why we should.

I want to challenge you to live a life of no regrets.  I want you to have the peace that I do at this very moment knowing that your life was everything you wanted it to be.  Do you want to travel?  Don't let the "buts" get in your way.  No excuses...no regrets.  Make it happen because you can! Here is how you can do it and it will be so much easier than you think!

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The next time you say you can't afford it, remember that you can.  You can choose to not buy all of those things that are meaningless and put that money aside for your next travel adventure - even if its to a beach in the next state. 

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The next time you think the timing is off to travel because you have this or that to take care of, remember that your house can be painted or cleaned any time.  We all have responsibilities - some of us far more than others, but where there's a will, there's a way.

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The next time you look at your vacation days at work, save a few just for you and your travel adventures, even if its just one or two extra days for a 4-day weekend.  Don't use them for "responsibilities" - be good to yourself because you've earned it!

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Instead of lamenting the fact that you're alone and have no one to travel with, or your significant other doesn't like to travel, explore solo traveler opportunities.  There are tons of them out there - and you'll be glad you did, especially because you just might make a new best friend.

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You're afraid....of leaving home, of going to another country, of flying, of being on the water, and the list goes on and on.  I'll let you in on a secret:  everyone is afraid of something on that list.  If you let your fears dominate your thinking and your life, you will exist - not live.  Those fears are stopping you from having the most memorable times of your life and experiences that you dream of.  As someone who has had to overcome many fears and phobias, I can tell you that the minute you do, you will be free - free of the chain around your neck that stops you from the real joy of living.

So here is a toast to you from me and Mike that you will start today on your quest to living a life of no regrets.  You deserve it...its really that simple!