Opening up.

Bachelor Nation fans saw Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist get engaged and then married on the very first season of “The Golden Bachelor.”

The two ultimately decided to end their relationship and go their separate ways. Theresa has been keeping followers updated with her life online ever since. 

Now, ahead of her 73rd birthday, the Golden Bachelor Nation star took to social media to open up about life lessons she’s learned over the years and admitted she “held back” while on “The Golden Bachelor.” 

Reflecting on what she would’ve done differently, she said, “I never like to regret anything, but now that I am approaching my 73rd birthday there are certain things I would’ve done differently. For one, I would have lived my life more authentically as myself. I spent too much time caring about what other people thought of me. I still have issues with this, but I’m getting better at it.”

Theresa went on, confessing that viewers didn’t get to see the real her on the show. 

“You might be surprised at how silly and goofy I can be, especially with my grandsons,” she shared. “I’m more outgoing than you might think. I held back a lot on the show. My fault. I let others and the cameras get to me. But here’s what I would say to you if you’re young, old or somewhere in between, be yourself. People will like you or not, but that’s on them.”

Theresa then shared some additional lessons she’s learned, including letting those you love know you care for them. 

“Don’t spend time being angry with anyone, especially with those you love,” she said. “It’s a waste of time, time you can’t get back. Speaking of which, don’t waste time on anything or anyone that doesn’t bring you joy, or worse, takes your joy away from you. But, care, care for whomever and whatever is important to you. Take care of your body so that it’s here a long time to support you. That’s one thing I think I did right.”

The Golden Bachelor Nation star ended her post with one final reminder for her followers. 

“You only have one life. So, do what makes you happy with those who make you happy,” she expressed. “Be brave. I know that I’ve lived more years than I’m going to live. But I act as though I’m going to live forever. 🩷🩷🩷”