Sometimes I think about opportunities I’ve lost. Primarily these are related to work and money. Leaving a company before stock vests. Not buying into stock that ends up doing well. Turning down a job opportunity.

Then I think about what I would have given up to have said yes. Flexibility. Travel. A big move. Personal investment.

It can be difficult to choose…to have considered an opportunity but turned down in favor or another. But, there’s no such thing as having it all. We make choices and everything has a cost. It’s up to each of us to determine what price we’re willing to pay.

I don’t have regrets. I’ve made decisions based on the information I had at the time. I’ve made choices based on other factors than money. It’s not all there is and I’m grateful I have that option.

What matters to me? Financial stability, yes. But also freedom, passion, interest, independence.

Every opportunity has a cost. What’s it worth to you?