Regret is a complex emotional response characterized by feelings of sadness, disappointment, or remorse about a past action, decision, or situation that one perceives as having negative consequences. It often involves a sense of wishing that one had made a different choice, leading to hypothetical reflections on how alternative actions might have led to better outcomes.
In the context of relationships, particularly in consensual non-monogamy (ENM), regret can arise when individuals feel remorse for experiences or decisions made regarding partners or arrangements. For example, a person might regret not setting clearer boundaries in a polyamorous agreement or may feel disappointed after engaging in a sexual experience that did not align with their values or desires.
Regret can also be associated with a lack of consent, where individuals reflect on situations where they may have felt pressured to proceed with an activity that they later wished they hadn’t. Such feelings can lead to emotional distress and a desire to learn from the experience to avoid similar situations in the future.
Regret refers to the feeling of sadness, disappointment, or remorse about a past decision, action, or event. It is a common human emotion that arises when individuals believe they made a wrong choice or missed an opportunity that could have led to a better outcome. Regret can stem from various aspects of life, including relationships, career choices, personal decisions, and more.
Regret
Regret is an emotional response to a perceived mistake or missed opportunity. It involves feelings of disappointment, sorrow, or remorse over a past action or decision. This emotion can vary in intensity and may lead individuals to reflect on their choices and consider alternative paths that could have resulted in a different outcome. Regret is a normal part of the human experience and can serve as a valuable learning tool for future decision-making.
About the Author: Gareth Redfern-Shaw
