The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward

Why the ‘no regrets’ creed is holding you back

Daniel H. Pink

2022

7 Key Insights

About This Book

Most of us defend ourselves against regret as if it were a poison—yet regret can be our greatest teacher. In this paradigm-shifting guide, you’ll discover how regret has shaped human evolution, sharpened decision-making, and forged deeper meaning in life. Through vivid stories—from Olympic heartbreaks to tattoo confessions—you’ll learn to recognize the four core regrets that underlie every missed opportunity, moral lapse, and lost connection. Then you’ll master seven science-backed tools—ranging from self-distancing to regret lotteries—to transform regret into a practical force that boosts your resilience, creativity, and fulfillment.

About the Author

Daniel H. Pink is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of the world’s most-read business writers. His award-winning books—including Drive and When—have sold millions of copies in over 40 languages. A former speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore, Pink has lectured at Stanford, HBS, and the Pentagon. He lives in Washington, D.C., with his family.

Biggest Takeaway

By embracing regret, you’ll learn to: (1) unearth the hidden lessons behind your biggest mistakes, (2) defend against future missteps with targeted ‘anticipated regret’ strategies, (3) deepen relationships by resolving long-standing rifts, and (4) elevate your performance at work and in life by turning painful reflections into positive plans. Expect sharper decisions, stronger connections, and a more resilient mindset.