Reflecting on Past Decisions: Hindsight is 20/20

Over the years, I've often wondered about the paths I could have taken had I made different choices. Looking back, especially over the past three years, several opportunities came to mind. If I could go back in time, there are several things I would do differently to ensure a more fulfilling life.

Regrets and Lost Opportunities

One of the most significant opportunities I passed up was going on a family vacation to Florida three years ago. My wife, son, granddaughter, and several other family members went on the trip, which was an experience I regret not being a part of. Instead, I chose to stay home and work. Unfortunately, my son passed away three months later due to complications from COVID-19. This regret serves as a stark reminder of the value of family time and the importance of seizing moments when they come.

Self-Development and Professional Exams

Another regret involves my attempts to pass the CA (Certified Accountant) exam. My primary goal after completing the necessary courses was to prepare and pass this exam. I made several attempts but was unsuccessful due to the high standard proficiency required by the profession. My colleagues who studied for 18 hours a day and frequently consulted allied books managed to succeed. I learned a valuable lesson: success requires timely action and preparation. Had I started studying earlier and more consistently, I might have been more prepared and successful in my exams.

Missteps in Planning and Spending

Five years prior, as I graduated from WIS and prepared to start working for my mother, I focused more on financial stability rather than experiencing life fully. My schedule was freer, and we had more money, but I missed out on experiential learning. One of my most memorable experiences was flying an airplane in 2016, which made me realize that saving money was a double-edged sword. While saving money is crucial, it's equally important to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way.

Lessons Learned

The past, though shaped by our choices, has molded who we are today. I've learned that even though there may be room for improvement, looking back with hindsight can be a double-edged sword. Changing the past would change my current self and experiences. Instead, I've come to terms with the lessons learned and continue to grow as a person.

The Future of Personal Finances and Health

Looking back at the past three years, I have experienced a significant shift in priorities. Stressed out and often engaged in risky behavior, I now recognize the mistakes and regrets that come from such actions. There are several areas where I wish I had spent more time and effort:

Leveraging Personal Finance and Investment

One of the most significant areas where I have a strong regret is personal finance and investment. Had I known more about these concepts, I could have made better investment decisions during the post-COVID situation in 2020. For example, a significant opportunity was lost to invest in the market when prices were low, and many trades could have provided substantial wealth growth by now, potentially earning or saving an additional 400-500%.

Exploring New Opportunities

Another regret is not exploring new opportunities and learning beyond the textbooks. While my current job has provided stability, I wish I had invested more time and effort in developing new skills and exploring different avenues. A diverse skill set is valuable, but it's even more so when accompanied by a positive mindset.

Health and Well-being

My health has taken a hit due to my sedentary work environment and stressful job schedule. I often maintained a healthy lifestyle, including regular sporting activities, but the nature of my work from home and white-collar job has undermined these efforts. Reflecting on this, I wish I had prioritized my health more consistently, as it is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being.

Looking forward, I hope to make better choices and prioritize areas where I can improve and grow. Learning from past mistakes, I believe that with continued effort and dedication, I can achieve more and live a richer, more fulfilling life.