These insights come from the profound work of palliative care nurse, Bronnie Ware, who compiled the most common regrets expressed by her patients nearing the end of their lives.

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.

2. I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.