“No regrets” has become a popular catchphrase over the years.

I get the sentiment behind it, truly. It’s supposed to mean we shouldn’t spend our time lamenting over the past, and instead look for the lessons in our mistakes. You know, live and learn and all that jazz. But while I think there’s truth to that, I also think if we’re being honest with ourselves, we all have things we wish we had done differently. 

Words we wish we hadn’t said in the heat of the moment. 

Things we wish we had prioritized more and some we had prioritized less. 

Relationships we wish we had put more time and intention into. 

The point is, we all need second chances. 

As I watched a pre-release of the movie “The Mulligan” a couple of weeks ago, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey as a mom, wife, and dream-chaser.

In the movie based on the popular book by the same title, Paul McAlister is a successful businessman who seems to have it all. Behind the scenes, though, he is separated from his wife, estranged from his son, and feeling the effects of his past choices.

It takes the guidance of a retired golf pro for Paul to realize what really matters in life—and the power of second chances. 

The movie was powerful and entertaining, and really left me thinking: When I look back in 20 years, will I be pleased with the path I’m on now?

It’s so easy to get caught up in everyday life. We hustle. We work hard. We go about the same tasks day in and day out, hoping to make progress.

We make sacrifices like working too much or seeking our value in “when.”

When I land my dream job. 

When I win that coveted award.

When I feel more comfortable with my finances.

We make so many sacrifices, telling ourselves we’re making them for the people we love and that it’ll all be worth it in the end. While I firmly believe there’s nothing wrong with chasing our dreams, we also need to take a step back and make sure we’re not losing sight of the things that really matter in the process.

One line in “The Mulligan” really stood out to me, and it’s one I’ll be replaying in my head for quite some time: “Some things aren’t worth sacrificing.”

How very true. 

When we break it down to the most simple (but most important) details, what really matters? 

I’ll go out on a limb to say it’s faith, family, happiness, and the positive impact we make on the world around us. 

I know I won’t get it all right, but if this movie reminded me of anything, it’s that I don’t want to overlook the little things that actually mean so much.

I don’t want to wish I had spent less time chasing success and more time investing in relationships with the people I love.

I don’t want to lose sight of the true building blocks of a happy life.

Most importantly, I don’t ever want to underestimate the beauty of second chances.

“The Mulligan” is in theaters for two nights only: Monday, April 18th and Tuesday, April 19th. Grab some friends, make a date, and be ready for an evening of feel-good vibes and perspective. 

THE MULLIGAN stars Eric Close (“Nashville”), Pat Boone, and Tanya Christensen (“I Still Believe”), with legendary PGA golfer Tom Lehman and hall-of-fame broadcaster Jim Nantz playing themselves. For tickets and more information visit www.themulliganmovie.com