Regret happens. What matters is what you do with it. Regret can lead to some pretty nasty and destructive emotions, and everyone deals with it in different ways. If you’re having trouble moving past your remorse, consider working through these tips to get on with your life.
1. Everyone Messes Up
Realizing that you are not the only person to ever mess up is an eye-opening experience. The sooner you accept that you are human, you made a mistake or a poor decision, and then move on, the sooner you can get on with your life.
2. Question Your Emotions
If your regret has led to some of the nastier emotions that come with it, start questioning those emotions. Is the self-loathing really helping? Does it make you or others feel better? Probably not. Those are your emotions, and you have the right to question them.
3. Reject Your Negative Self-Talk
When you find yourself slipping into negative self-talk, stop and question it. Negative self-talk is one of the most counterproductive acts you can take part it. Question why you are saying those things to yourself and if they are getting you anywhere.
4. Question Your Triggers (for negative self-talk)
What starts your negative self-talk? Is it internal, something someone else says, or another emotion? Do your best or remove those triggers so you can go through your day without being reminded.
5. Question Your Thoughts
Our thoughts shape our actions and our reality. If you are having negative thoughts (about yourself or a situation), then question those. Why do you have them? Are they helping? Our thoughts directly impact our perception of reality and our outward actions. Do not let your negative thoughts run amuck.
6. Gratitude – Do It!
Regular gratitude can help you see the good in your days, your weeks, and your life. Stop and be thankful for what you do have.
7. Be Authentic to Yourself
Your one mistake is not the sum of who you are. Be honest with yourself and who you are. What are your positive qualities and attributes? What do you want to do moving forward?
8. Apologize to and Forgive Yourself
Let yourself off the hook. Forgive yourself for the poor decision. Apologize to yourself for the regret and negative emotions, and then forgive yourself again for speaking so harshly to yourself.
Regret can bog you down and create an endless cycle. Take time daily to work through your regret and allow yourself to move past and reach your full potential.