Woulda-Coulda-Shoulda

“All the Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas
Layin' in the sun,
Talkin' bout the things
They woulda-coulda-shoulda done...
But those Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas
All ran away and hid
From one little did.” - Shel Silverstein 

This poem, though written for children, provokes a rather compelling question: 

Why do we dwell on the past when we know we can’t change it?

Shame. Guilt. Fear. These negative thoughts can fester inside us like parasites.

I woulda tried harder.

I coulda done more.

I shoulda asked for help when I needed it.

Sure. You woulda-coulda-shoulda done lots of things, but you didn’t—

AND THAT’S OK!

Remember that your past is your past, whether you like it or not. 

Your past made who you are right now. In this moment. Reading this post.

But it does not dictate who you become. 

Your present and your future are yours to cultivate, and yours to live!

So next time you find yourself dwelling on the woulda-coulda-shoulda’s of your past, remember they're valuable lessons that help you grow.

Harness these lessons and turn them into actions—

I WILL try harder.

I CAN do more.

I WILL ask for help next time I need it.

Choose to be excited about what your past has taught you. 

Give it some love and let it guide you to creating the life you want!