Mark Twain said that you’ll regret the things you didn’t do much more than the things you did do. It’s a sage observation.

So what are regrets do people have when they retire that you could start working to avoid?

Here are 7 regrets to avoid from Inc magazine that will help you avoid bad career choices.

1. Staying in a job too long. That doesn’t mean you should be a job hopper but don’t make compromises with your life. If you’re underpaid or underappreciated, move.
2. Not sticking up for yourself. At some point you’ll come across a bully or someone that tries to make you compromise your values. Stick to your guns. Have a clear set of values and boundaries and make them known. Don’t compromise or wimp out.
3. Not taking risks. Take a punt on yourself. Trust your instincts but don’t sacrifice the best you can be  for a weekly salary.
4. Getting caught up in politics. Avoid negative people and those who want to gossip and complain. Your time will be better invested by spending time with positive people.
5. Caring too much what others think. Stop beating up on yourself and looking for validation from other people. This is your life. Live it with pride and live it on your terms.
6. Not finishing what you started. Didn’t finish that uni degree? Couldn’t get projects completed because you’re too much of a perfectionist? Seize the moment and get them finished. You’ll be proud of it.
7. Not spending enough time with your family. Don’t be the sad parent that Harry Chapin sang about in Cat’s in the Cradle. If you don’t have time for your family, make it. Stop for a moment and analyse what’s important to your life and start putting family time first.

What regrets do you hope to avoid?