Intelligent Intoxication

Regret vs. Guilt in the Empty Nest Years


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As our kids grow up and leave home, many parents find themselves reflecting on the past — replaying choices, wondering what they could have done differently, and questioning the paths they took. 
In this episode, we explore the difference between guilt and regret — two emotions that often surface in the quiet of the empty nest, yet hold very different meanings and invitations.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

  • The subtle but powerful distinction between guilt (“I did something wrong and need to repair it”) and regret (“I wish I’d chosen differently”).
    • REGRET is sorrow aroused by circumstances beyond one's control or power to repair.
    • GUILT is the fact of having done something wrong or the state of feeling responsible for it.
    • How both guilt and regret can sometimes keep us stuck in self-blame and shame.
    • Key Takeaway:

      Both guilt and regret can be powerful teachers — but only if we allow them to move us toward greater compassion and alignment, not punishment.

      Tune in if you’ve ever found yourself thinking:

      “I wish I’d been more present.”

      “Did I make the wrong choice for my family — or for me?”
      “How do I forgive myself for what I didn’t know then?”

       

      If you know you could use some support as you navigate both regret and guilt in the empty nest , email me to schedule a complimentary happy hour call:

      Thank you for investing your valuable time and energy into listening to the podcast. I’m so very grateful for you. 

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      Don’t forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to be notified any time I pour out a new episode. 

      My new book Intentional Intoxication: How To Deliberately Distill The Different Life You Desire, is available on Amazon. You can imbibe on the entire book in one, short, intentionally happier hour:

      Intentional Intoxication Book

      If you’re interested to know about how I can support you in overcoming the habit of escaping or chasing, I invite you to reach out to me by using the email below and we find a time to chat:

      For a quick shot of your life’s current level of intoxication, I invite you to complete the 10 Questions on my Intoxication Inventory:

      Intoxication Inventory

       

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      Intelligent IntoxicationBy Terri Bradway

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