15th October 2024
Tony Robbins often says, “It is in your moments of decisions that your destiny is shaped.”
We all contemplate a life change at some time in our life.
Perhaps you are considering a career transition such as going freelance or starting your own business.
Maybe you’re weighing a personal decision such as moving from the city to the countryside. Or you might be considering writing a book or starting a podcast.
The “Rocking Chair Test” is a simple way to weigh those big decisions.
Imagine you’re in your 90s, sitting in a rocking chair on a porch contemplating your life. What are the things you’re glad you did? What are the things you wish you had done?
As you move into your future, ask yourself:
What if I never did this?
How would I feel?
Would my life be different?
Do I regret not taking the chance?
Is this something that would haunt me and I would always wonder about?
Do you find yourself feeling like something is missing? Is there a sadness or longing?
Or is there great pride and comfort of having made that decision?
Get specific and feel your way through the answers.
What if I just stayed here in my job, would I regret not taking the chance to explore my options when I was younger?
What if I didn’t at least try to follow my dreams, would it be something that I would always look back upon and wonder, what if…?
In life, we find we are more disappointed by the things we didn’t do then the ones we did. So if you are feeling regret as an imaginary 90 year old, take it to heart.
Many people who use the Rocking Chair Test are motivated to consider a major decision in a different way.
Sure, it’s a lot of work to write a book. You’re busy! But imagine yourself in your 90s in that rocking chair. Would you regret taking the time to write and publish that book? Or would you regret not writing it?
Your future self in your rocking chair will be glad you did!
Use this tool as a shot of courage to go for something that you really want out of life.
Next time you are trying to decide which way to go, put the rocking chair test to work for you.
The rocking chair test allows you to live your life fully and release regret.
I will tell you this much, it’s much better to wear out than rust out, and it’s much better to have a few cuts and bruises on your way to success by taking a few risks, than it will be to play it safe and settle for a normal, frustrating, meaningless existence.
Sydney Harris said, “Regret for things we did, can be tempered by time; it is regret for things we did not do, that is inconsolable.”
Take your ‘Rocking Chair’ test today to ensure you have no regrets later & stay Blessed forever.