We all err in life. Most often, our errors and mistakes are unexpected and the product of unknowing rather than intention. If I could rewind life, there are many errors I would not make again--errors I regret. But as we all know, we all make mistakes and errors in life, and we have to use those errors as stepping stones to greater wisdom and good living.
What error areas do I want to update and change?
Conjecture
In early life, I began a habit of conjecturing about why events occurred and why people acted the way they did. This early pattern of conjecture was born out of a need to make sense with regard to a number of events occurring around and within my life. Conjecture can help us to understand the world around us, but it can also create problems since conjecture without facts or sensitivity can lead us to false conclusions. Rather than conjecture, it's better to quietly observe; sensitively inquire, and at times, stand back from situations we don't understand.
Judgement
Many around me in early life often judged others--rather than dealing with the facts, they would make decisions about the positivity or negativity related to people's choices and lifestyles. Much of this decision making was based on what was popular at that time. We all have to be very careful about judging others actions without learning more about why people act the way they do.
Self respect
As a woman living in a world that often disregarded and disrespected women, I too often accepted poor behavior and words towards me. I've learned that we don't have to accept poor, unkind, hurtful words and behaviors. Instead, it's best to speak up when disrespect occurs. It's often true that those who hurt and disrespect us may not realize the pain their actions are causing. Many may act the way they do because it's a learned behavior rather than a purposeful attempt to hurt or harm. We can speak up kindly to end the disrespect and hurt, and if that pain does not stop, we can distance ourselves from the source of that hurtful behavior.
Good work
We can focus our time and effort on life-enriching work and activities rather than work and activities that don't uplift ourselves and others.
Good words
We can use good, inspiring, positive, helpful words rather than hurtful, troubling words.
Seek help
When we are stuck or challenged, we can seek the kind of support that helps us out of life's ruts.
Apology
We can apologize to those we hurt intentionally or unintentionally.
Contribute to a positive community
We can find ways to contribute to a positive community.
Onward.
