How we build
the archive.
The Regret Index is only as valuable as the integrity of its data. This page explains exactly how we collect, structure, verify, and protect every submission in the archive.
Structured, not freeform
Every submission follows the same schema: the decision itself, the context at time of decision, the outcome after a defined timeframe, and a regret score (0-10). This structure is what makes the data comparable and searchable.
We deliberately do not collect free-form essays. Structured data scales; essays don't.
Outcome-first, not advice-first
Submitters report what actually happened — not what they think others should do. This removes the advice-giving bias that corrupts most crowdsourced wisdom. We ask: "What would you tell yourself?" not "What should others do?"
The regret score is self-reported. We do not infer it from sentiment analysis or external signals.
Survivorship bias: We actively recruit submissions from people who made decisions that did not work out. Regret scores below 3 and above 8 are equally represented in the moderation queue.
Recency bias: We require a minimum elapsed time between the decision and submission to ensure the submitter has lived with the outcome, not just reacted to it.
Social desirability bias: All submissions are fully anonymous. There is no social identity attached to a submission once it enters the archive.
Every submission enters a moderation queue before appearing publicly. Our moderation checks for:
- ◆Completeness — all required fields populated
- ◆Coherence — the decision and outcome are logically connected
- ◆Authenticity — no promotional content, no fictional scenarios
- ◆Safety — no content that could identify or harm a third party
Rejected submissions receive a reason. Submitters can revise and resubmit once.
Decisions look different over time.
A career pivot evaluated at 6 months often feels different at 3 years and dramatically different at 5. We follow up with submitters at 1, 3, and 5-year intervals to update their regret score and outcome narrative. These longitudinal data points are the most valuable in the archive.
Follow-up participation is opt-in. Email reminders are sent only to users who explicitly enrolled.
Add your experience to the archive. Fully anonymous.