Susan well said. Unconditional self-love is a beautiful prescription. Let’s all simply love ourselves unconditionally regardless of what we have and have not done. That would make quite the world, wouldn’t it?

When I detect I’m doing it again, I listen to the wonderful silence between 2 thoughts. It’s such an inspiring and beautiful place to be.

Love and Peace, Ronny

Suzanne I would have laughed at your comment without the smiley faces. Only because I’ve been there with clients many times myself and it’s amazing how they equate responsibility with punishment of some sort.

Readers check out Suzanne’s post on mistakes made with others.
http://www.learningcurvecoaching.com/2008/05/when-you-screw-up/

Katie thanks for pointing that out. There is nothing wrong with a missed attempt. It happens all the time and is indeed a natural part of life. I also like your perspective on how we view ourselves. Let’s all cut ourselves some slack today.

Great reminder to us all! I had a client ask me, “If I’m trying to be 100% responsible for my life, why are you telling me to give myself a break?” I had to explain that you can actually do both…at the same time. We’re still working on it.

Suzanne

“When we screw-up we can either change what occurred so that we don’t make the same mistake again or we can change how we feel about making mistakes”

Or maybe even both. Change how you feel about it whilst doing your best to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Reframe your misses until you keep hitting and then you don’t need to bother.

Fawn yes self-absolution is gloriously rich and satisfying because it confirms that it’s all up to us. We make up our worlds so we might as well clean them up to suit us.

Charlie welcome man thanks so much for sharing your excellent tips. I really like their clarity and power especially the Holmes quote.

Kenneth yes life is beautiful. Your comment made me think of the movie of the same name. That put a smile on my face, thank you.

Shann absolution from second-guessing – life with no regrets, outstanding!

Jonathan thanks so much man; I’m very happy you enjoyed it. Realizing that the enemy we are the enemy of graceful living is very astute of you.

Evelyn scores another one for lightening up and forgiveness. Readers see what Evelyn said – forgiveness and lightening up made her happier.

Louise I’m right there with you. I screw-up almost daily. That’s why I have so many tools to feel better about it.

Karl is that where punishment comes from? As an answer to not make the same mistake again. Well I bet that really doesn’t work.
Yes you are correct; making a fresh start both emotionally and mentally feels wonderful.

Patricia thanks for that perspective of mistakes as challenges. Yes negative connotations are very interesting. Some folks have no problem with the word mistakes. But since you do it is very wise of you to use another word. I once new a guy who called all problems, projects instead. It worked for him. Language is so powerful. I have a post coming up on specific suggestions for more life-giving language.

Great article, Tom. Thanks for sharing your thoughts about mistakes and forgiveness. Challenges add richness to our lives. Forgiveness adds knowledge of self and compassion to our lives. Have a glorious day.

When you take the time to appreciate the good work that you do this creates a positive mindset which helps encourage a fresh start. I’m still learning to do this, but when it works it’s a great feeling.