Neuroscientists identify regret as one of the most powerful human emotions, activating both cognitive and emotional brain regions. Studies show people regret inactions more than actions by a 2:1 margin - the job not taken hurts more than the failed business. The "peak regret" age is 37, when people realize time is limited. But regret serves an evolutionary purpose: it helps us learn. The healthiest approach is to view regrets as data points rather than life sentences. Researchers at Northwestern found that reframing regrets as "evidence of growth" reduces their emotional weight. The person who made that past choice isn't you anymore - that's why it stings.