Would You Go Back in Time to Alter Your Past Decisions?

Imagine having the ability to step back in time and change a pivotal moment in your life. Would you seize that opportunity if it came at the cost of living a completely different reality? This article explores the choices and regrets faced by a seasoned individual who reflects on how changing certain decisions might have led to a vastly different path.

Personal Reflections on Retiring in Cambodia

At 72, my life was approaching a familiar pattern: it was time to retire. However, the discussion about a house in Cambodia with a friend opened up a new chapter. Instead of usual retirement plans, we moved to Phnom Penh to advise NGOs. This decision, while challenging, has been intellectually enriching. I would never change the last 11 years because of the valuable experiences they offered.

Reflecting further, I wouldn't have the luxury of altering those years even if I could go back. I would rather be a robot, experiencing the events without the temptation to change, cherishing the stories and experiences for what they are.

Retiring in Canada: A Wisely Made Decision

The decision to move from Cambodia to retire in Canada was a complex one, made over 5 years of careful consideration. In 2017, we made the long journey to our new home, marking the beginning of a new life. Since then, it has been a source of joy and contentment.

This decision shows the importance of thinking long-term and making choices based on a deep understanding of the potential outcomes. Choosing to stay in new environments, either for work or as a way to improve safety, enhances personal growth and quality of life.

Financial Strategies and Their Impact

Financial planning is a critical aspect of life, especially for those looking to secure their future. If given the chance to go back, I would significantly alter my financial strategies. Firstly, I would choose a different surgeon for my wife's routine gallbladder surgery. The consequences of medical malpractice have left her with life-long disability and chronic pain. This alone would have been a substantial change in my life's trajectory.

Secondly, I would have made better investment choices. Specifically, I would have prioritized investing in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, opting to keep them in cold storage. By selling those assets in 2021, I would have amassed a substantial sum, potentially reaching $1 billion today. The critical lesson here is not just about the value of financial assets but the impact of delayed investment opportunities.

Lessons from Past Experiences

While some might view a lifetime of learning and growth as a positive, others might have regrets about their past. One such regret is the experience of being humiliated for trying to prove knowledge in an environment that didn't value or understand it. For me, working with outdated technologies like cars and computers, and having low patience, reinforced the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

Choosing the right time to make significant career moves can also be crucial. If I had moved to my current job sooner, I might have skipped a less fulfilling one in the middle, leading to a more direct and rewarding path.

In conclusion, reflecting on past decisions and their potential outcomes can provide valuable insights. While it's tempting to think about changing pivotal moments, some of our most meaningful experiences often come from the challenges and decisions we face. Embracing the present and learning from past experiences without the temptation to alter them can lead to a more fulfilling and content life.