Does everyone rethink past decisions when seeing someone else's success?

It's a very common human experience to reflect on your own life choices when you see others achieving milestones or thriving. This isn't necessarily about envy, but often a natural tendency to compare and evaluate where you stand, especially regarding career paths, relationships, or major life shifts. Our minds are wired to consider alternative outcomes and learn from observations, both positive and negative.

Research from the University of California suggests that nearly 80% of adults report experiencing some form of social comparison, often leading to reflection on personal life choices.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who rethinks past decisions when seeing someone else's success?

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to rethink past decisions when seeing someone else's success?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to rethink past decisions when seeing someone else's success?

Is It Weird?

Why do I rethink past decisions when seeing someone else's success?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

and the letter, it said i was "exceptionally promising. …

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I’m sitting here, 2 AM again, staring at the ceiling of this penthouse apartment I bought with the bonus money. …

settling regret

I saw this ad for some volunteer thing in Bhutan, like for lawyers, pro bono work, and it just hit me, like a brick to the head, because I remember that email, that exact opportunity, came across my… …

settling regret

empty quiet. …

settling regret

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel regret about old choices when others succeed?▾
Feeling regret often stems from a natural comparison, where seeing someone else's positive outcome highlights a path you didn't take. It's less about their success and more about your brain evaluating 'what if' scenarios to understand potential missed opportunities.
Is it normal to feel like I settled in life?▾
Many people grapple with the feeling of having settled, particularly when observing others who seem to have achieved more or different things. This feeling is a common part of self-reflection, prompting us to consider our values and priorities.
How can I stop dwelling on past life choices?▾
Shifting focus from past choices to present actions can be helpful. Concentrate on what you can influence now, celebrate your own unique achievements, and understand that every person's path is different and not directly comparable.

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