How to Live a Life with No Regrets

Most people spend their lives waiting for the “right time” to chase their dreams. But time moves fast, and if you’re not intentional, you may look back with regrets about the experiences you never had.

On The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast, Bridget Hilton shared powerful insights on how to live a fulfilling life, make meaningful decisions, and avoid common regrets. Here’s what bookkeepers—and anyone running a business—can learn from her approach.

1. Prioritise Experiences Over Possessions

Many people regret spending too much time chasing financial success while neglecting personal experiences. Research shows that people are happier when they invest in experiences rather than material things.

✅ How to apply this:

• Set goals for personal experiences, not just financial milestones.
• Take time off to travel, attend events, or spend quality time with loved ones.
• Treat life as a collection of meaningful moments, not just work and obligations.

As a bookkeeper, financial success is important—but it should be a tool to create the life you want, not the sole focus.

2. Take Action Now—Not "Someday"

One of the biggest regrets people have is waiting too long to do what truly matters. Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting a passion project, or making a career change, waiting for the "perfect time" often leads to missed opportunities.

✅ Make progress today by:

• Setting short-term, actionable goals.
• Taking small steps toward long-term dreams.
• Removing excuses—most barriers are mental rather than real.

Think about what you've been postponing. What can you do today to move one step closer?

3. Strengthen Relationships and Connections

At the end of life, people rarely regret working too little—they regret not spending enough time with family and friends. Strong personal connections lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

✅ Ways to nurture relationships:

• Schedule regular time with family and friends, just like business meetings.
• Build relationships with clients beyond just transactions.
• Express gratitude and appreciation to those who support you.

The strength of your connections will define your happiness far more than business success alone.

4. Push Beyond Comfort Zones

Personal growth happens when you challenge yourself. Whether it’s public speaking, networking, or launching a new service, stepping outside of your comfort zone leads to new opportunities.

✅ Try this:

• Say yes to opportunities that make you slightly uncomfortable.
• Set challenges that push your skills and confidence.
• View failure as part of learning, not something to avoid.

Growth happens when you take risks. What’s one challenge you can take on today?

5. Create a Work-Life Balance That Works for You

Many business owners fall into the trap of overworking, thinking it will lead to success. But burnout leads to resentment, health issues, and, ultimately, regrets.

✅ Balance work and life by:

• Setting clear boundaries for work hours.
• Taking real breaks to recharge.
• Outsourcing tasks that don’t require your personal touch.

Success should support your happiness, not come at its expense.

Living a life with no regrets isn’t about reckless decisions—it’s about making intentional choices that align with your values. The best time to start is now.

Take one step today toward the life you truly want.

For more great content, check out The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast!