Dealing With Past Dumb Decisions

The first thing I want to say is that we ALL make dumb decisions. Sometimes we don't know that we are making a dumb decision as we do the action. But as we look back on these mistakes we usually feel regret, ashamed, foolish, and cruddy. Now, the last thing we need is a reminder about how we shouldn't have done something. But, we do need those reminders to remind us that we shouldn't do that certain action in the future. A lot of people make decisions sometimes to impress their friends, to feel included or just because they think it's "cool". Well, let's take a step back and think about this. Always ask yourself:

1. Why am I doing this?

2. How does this help me?

3. (Most of all) How will this affect me in the future?

These are some of the basic questions to ask yourself before making a decision. Now, say you already did something and you are trying to make it better. If you said something that was rude or mean, apologize no matter how long it has been. If you have done something that has hurt your reputation, look at the mistakes you have made and correct it. For example, if you gossip, ask yourself, "How does this relate to me"? "How will this help me in the future"? But also, refrain from that activity and replace it with something wholesome. Think of how many things you could do rather than saying things about other people (it takes up more time than you think)! That energy you put into that one negative activity you could be putting into a positive activity! Now, if it is people you are hanging around that influence you to do these things, remove yourself from them. If you are around toxic people that only bring you down, ask yourself, "Why am I around them and what good is this to me"? Talk to someone new and be friends with them instead of being around someone that is miserable and only wants to bring you down with them. Always remember that misery LOVES company (someone very special to me told me that) and it is very true. They only want to see you more miserable than they are because they think that they are the only ones going through whatever it is they are going through. Get away from them and find someone new. It won't be immediate but it is better being lonely than being with someone that will only make you feel worse. One last thing I haven't gone over is how to personally get over the after thoughts of making a dumb decision. Here are my suggestions:

1. What is done is done. Unfortunately, we can't change our past but we CAN change our future. So like I said, correct the habits you have made and move on. 

2. Try your best not to beat yourself up. Take care of yourself. Always know that EVERYONE makes mistakes. You are never alone. 

3. Talk to someone you trust. Make sure this person cares about you and how you feel. 

4. Last but certainly not least, LISTEN to the advice an elder gives you. They have more experience than you, they have lived longer on this planet, and you might regret it if you don't follow their advice (trust me). They will tell you so if you don't follow their advice! 

So, I hope this has helped and while you are at it, STAY POSITIVE!! :)