Making Mistakes

To make no mistakes is not in the power of man; but from their errors and mistakes the wise and good learn wisdom for the future. – Plutarch

We all mistakes, everyday. But, are they really mistakes?

We place judgments on the actions we take. Once we judge a decision or action as a mistake, we then attach blame. Guilt usually follows. Sometimes, we hold on to the guilt for years, decades or our entire lives which is complete madness. We have a lot of better things to do then manage or deal with years of guilt.

How about looking at what you used to call mistakes as nothing more than information? In other words, you make a decision or take an action and it doesn’t work out or you don’t feel good afterwards. Use your negative emotional state as an easy guide to make another decision or go in a different direction. No more judgment.

We all have free will and can go in any direction we want at any time. Plus, our desires and the directions we want to pursue are continually changing. So, stop the self judgment.

Here is the simple rule:

• If we do something and it makes us feel good then continue in that direction.
• If we do something and we don’t feel good, change directions. Typically, the change in direction doesn’t have to be drastic; just a small shift will usually work.

Remember to use how you feel as your guide and not judge your decisions or actions. Life will be much simpler, more fun and lot less stressful.

Michael

Tags: Emotional Health, Guidance