Why do I wonder if I should have tried harder in college?

It's common to look back at past decisions, especially significant ones like college, and reflect on what could have been. These thoughts often stem from comparing your current situation to an idealized future or observing the paths of others. This kind of introspection is a natural part of evaluating your life choices and ambitions.

Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicates that regret over educational choices is one of the most frequently reported types of regret among adults.

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<h1>Am I the only one who wonders if I should have tried harder in college?</h1>

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone wonder if they should have tried harder in college?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to wonder if you should have tried harder in college?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to wonder if you should have tried harder in college?

Is It Weird?

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. …

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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… …

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empty quiet. …

settling regret

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to regret not trying harder in college years later?▾
Yes, many people experience moments of looking back at their college years and wishing they had approached things differently. This often happens when facing new challenges or comparing current achievements to past potential.
How can I stop dwelling on past college regrets?▾
Focusing on present actions and future goals can help. Instead of dwelling, consider what you can learn from those feelings and how you can apply that insight to your current endeavors and aspirations.
What causes people to feel regret about past educational choices?▾
Regret about educational choices often arises from a gap between current circumstances and desired outcomes, or from a perception that different past actions could have led to a more favorable present. Social comparison also plays a role.

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