Sometimes it happens that when we look back on our past actions, we end up asking ourselves, “What was I thinking?!” We may experience regret or become upset, but the reality is that it has happened, and there is nothing we can do to change it.
Dwelling on the past really does become a form of personal torture. We judge our current situation by our past decisions and often blame ourselves because the present is not what we really wanted. But here’s the thing…wisdom comes from experience, and we could have only gained our current wisdom because of those past decisions. Now we know better…and as my Grandmother loved to say, when you know better, you do better!
So, don’t torture yourself about decisions you can no longer change! Instead, focus your energy on changing your current actions to reflect your lessons learned. As with driving, you look ahead in order to move forward, enjoy the view, and avoid potholes…you only consult your rearview mirrors to avoid dangers coming from behind when you stop or change lanes ;)
Photo source: Tour de France (1920s)