When you feel guilty does it motivate you? If you carry guilt around does it change how you act? Does it matter if someone else is laying on the quilt or if you are creating it?
Most things we feel guilty about don’t deserve the effort. If you don’t cook one night but instead order pizza, don’t sweat it. If you miss one personal deadline, cut yourself some slack. If you sleep in two mornings rather than getting up for a workout, it is okay.
If you lie once , to gain a personal advantage, maybe you should feel a twinge. If you lie constantly will guilt help you become truthful? If your actions are intentionally hurtful or your words intentionally mean spirited, I don’t want to be around you and you should look tired from a lack of quality sleep.
I am not sure guilt compels us to act differently. If the action conforms with our world view and approach to life, it is likely a waste of the effort. If we do, say or compel something that is out of character then that niggling voice can bring us back in alignment.
I do things that I am proud of every week. I do things that make me feel guilty every week. It isn’t a balancing exercise but being aware of the motivation and consequences might tip my week towards things I am proud of.
Make Today Remarkable, by being observant,
B
