Shannen Doherty "wouldn't be where she is today" without her past transgressions.

The 40-year-old former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress lived a wild life in the past.

Shannen acknowledges her blunders, but she is happy that she experienced them.

"I was an absolute moron," Shannen told People magazine. "There are moments when I'll drop my head in my hands and go, What was I thinking?' But if it weren't for the mistakes I made, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Shannen began working in Hollywood at the age of 10 in order to support her family.

Her father's ailing health was a primary concern for the star throughout her childhood and early adult years.

"I wanted him to have the best medical care possible," Shannen explained. "I had to be so responsible in that area of my life that I was acting out in other areas."

Shannen hopes to repair some of the relationships she's lost with former confidants.

"It's time people get to know the real me. I burned a lot of bridges and hurt people," she shared. "I feel a peace I've never felt before. Now I'm ready for the next chapter in my life."