What Mistakes Do We Wish We Could Undo After Matric?
What Mistakes Do We Wish We Could Undo After Matric? Reflections on Regrets and Lessons Learned
After finishing matric, life feels like it’s just beginning—filled with possibilities, yet full of uncertainty. As young people step out into the world, many of us find that our journey doesn’t always unfold the way we imagined. It's natural to have moments where we look back and wonder: What if I had done that differently? Recently, I posed a question to my community: “What is the one mistake you made after Matric that you wish you could change or do better?” The responses were both heartfelt and insightful, shedding light on common regrets that many of us share.
Here are some of the reflections I received from individuals who’ve had the courage to look back and reflect on their decisions after matriculation:
1. Carrying the Weight of Family Problems
Nomveliso shared a powerful reflection, wishing someone had told her not to embody her family’s problems. She admitted that she unknowingly took on the burdens of others, which became her own. This is a sentiment many people can relate to—feeling obligated to fix things for others or take on too much responsibility. The lesson here is the importance of setting healthy boundaries and realizing that it's not our job to solve everything for everyone else.
2. Not Following Your Passion
Nokulunga Ntombela had a passion for interior design that she discovered in her third year of university. However, she felt pressured to stick to the path her family had set out for her, and she never pursued her true passion. Instead, she finished her degree in physiotherapy. Many people look back and regret not following their passions sooner, and the lesson here is that it’s never too late to pursue what sets your heart on fire. Sometimes, we need to trust our instincts, even if it means deviating from the traditional path.
3. Not Taking Matric Seriously
Ayanda Mlangeni shared that her mistake was not taking matric seriously enough. It’s not uncommon for young people to treat matric as a final hurdle before adulthood, rather than a critical foundation for future success. The takeaway from this regret is clear: Taking education seriously, especially at such a pivotal point, can make all the difference in how you approach life and career choices later on.
4. Wasting Time on the Wrong Path
Niki Mchunu Khumalo admitted to wasting four years on a course she didn’t like and still doesn’t enjoy. This experience is a common one. Many individuals choose their careers based on what seems practical at the time or out of fear of disappointing others. But that decision can lead to years of dissatisfaction. The key here is to trust your instincts and seek guidance before committing to something that doesn’t truly resonate with your interests.
5. Not Listening to Your Instincts
Relebogile Masego Mogorosi shared a profound insight: moving out of home earlier, when her instincts told her to, could have made a huge difference in her life. She believes she would have healed and become the person she was meant to be sooner. This highlights the importance of trusting ourselves and not ignoring those gut feelings. Sometimes, we know what’s best for us—whether it’s taking a break, exploring new opportunities, or making a change.
6. Not Embracing Change
Zanele Samantha Nkosi expressed a simple, yet poignant regret: “I wish I never came back from Pretoria.” It’s easy to fall into patterns that feel comfortable, but sometimes, the key to growth is embracing change, even when it’s difficult or unfamiliar.
7. Rushing into University
Nosizwe Mjekula wished she had taken a gap year to explore her interests before rushing into university. She enrolled in a course she wasn’t passionate about, and the experience ultimately didn’t benefit her. This speaks to the pressure many feel to get their lives “on track” immediately after matric. Taking a step back to find yourself, as Nosizwe suggested, could lead to a more fulfilling future.
8. Taking on Too Much Responsibility Too Soon
Buyiselwa Dlakana admitted that at 18, she took on the role of a breadwinner, feeling responsible for everyone and everything around her. As a result, she ended up failing at it. The lesson here is the importance of not overburdening yourself with responsibilities that aren’t yours to carry. It’s essential to recognize when you’re taking on too much and when it’s okay to step back.
9. Wishing for a Second Chance at Matric
Mbali Mfamana expressed a deep regret: “I wish I could have repeated matric and applied for the career I’m passionate about.” Even though she has kids and responsibilities, this dream still lingers for her. It's never too late to follow your passion, but sometimes we have to make peace with the paths we’ve taken and learn to adjust our dreams. However, the desire for change can serve as motivation to continue pursuing your passions in new ways.
10. Learning to Say No
Randy Nkosi shared that his mistake was being a people pleaser and not learning how to say “no.” He regrets not standing firm on his boundaries earlier in life. This is a mistake many of us make, often out of fear of disappointing others or being perceived as selfish. But the truth is, saying “no” when necessary is vital for protecting your well-being and staying on the path that’s right for you.