The Sixth Regret of the Dying

We've all heard about the Top Five Regrets of the Dying, made famous by Australian palliative care nurse Bronnie Ware. After spending years caring for people in the final weeks of their lives, she identified five common regrets that surfaced time and time again.

But what if there is a sixth regret emerging? In this episode, Glenn revisits Bronnie Ware's powerful work and explores what he believes could become one of the biggest regrets of the modern generation:

"I wish I hadn't spent so much time looking at my phone."

This isn't an anti-technology episode. It's a conversation about presence, connection and the limited time we have with the people we love. From families sitting together but disconnected, to couples spending more time scrolling than talking, Glenn challenges listeners to consider whether our devices are quietly stealing some of life's most meaningful moments.

Drawing on personal observations, Stoic philosophy and a heartbreaking story of a friend who lost his 22-year-old son, this episode asks a confronting question:

If you knew how little time you had left with the people you love, would you spend it the same way you do now? You'll learn practical strategies to become more present, reconnect with the people who matter most and ensure that technology remains a tool rather than becoming a barrier to meaningful relationships.

Because one day, the greatest regret may not be what we did. It may be what we missed while looking down.

Key Takeaways

• The original Top Five Regrets of the Dying centre around authenticity, relationships, courage and connection—not money, status or possessions.
• Modern technology has created unprecedented connection, but many people feel more disconnected than ever.
• Being physically present and being emotionally present are two very different things.
• Phones are not the problem; unconscious and habitual phone use is.
• Attention is one of the most valuable gifts we can give another person.
• Many of life's most meaningful moments are being interrupted by screens and distractions.
• We often assume there will be more time with the people we love, but none of us are guaranteed another conversation, meal or opportunity.
• Presence is one of the purest expressions of love and respect.
• Children learn what matters by watching what we pay attention to.
• Relationships thrive when we intentionally create space for connection.

 

The Building Better Humans Project is brought to you by ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS. Visit www.adventureprofessionals.com.au

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