TED Talks Daily 4 kinds of regret -- and what they teach you about yourself | Daniel H. Pink (re-release)
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Dec 27, 2025 
In this insightful talk, Daniel H. Pink, an acclaimed author focused on motivation, unpacks the complexities of regret, drawing from over 16,000 submissions worldwide. He identifies four core types of regret: foundation, boldness, moral, and connection. Pink emphasizes that understanding these regrets can guide us toward a more fulfilling life. He encourages viewers to transform regret into action, offering practical tips for reconnecting with others and making empowered choices to overcome missed opportunities.
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Four Universal Regrets
- Daniel Pink found the same four regrets across 16,000 people in 105 countries: foundation, boldness, moral, and connection regrets.
- These recurring regrets reveal universal human values and point to what constitutes a good life.
Regret Reveals What We Value
- Each regret maps to a yearning: stability, the chance to be bold, moral integrity, and meaningful connections.
- Regret acts like a photographic negative of a good life, showing what people value most.
Always Reach Out First
- When relationships begin to drift, prioritize reaching out rather than avoiding awkwardness.
- Daniel Pink's rule: if you're at a juncture about reconnecting, always reach out.