3 Powerful Ways to Reverse Guilt

You probably know how destructive guilt can be. It often causes us to ignore our needs while constantly putting others first. That can lead to stress and burnout. But you can use guilt as a productive tool to help you grow and move forward. Here’s how:

Turn it on its head. Anytime you feel guilty about turning down a dinner invitation with a friend or taking time for a massage, use this as a red flag that reminds you it’s important to put your self-care first.

Go deeper. Guilt can be a sign of underlying emotional issues that need addressing – like being a people-pleaser, feeling inadequate or unaccepted or being a perfectionist. It can be a window into significant personal growth.

Use it to help you change. If you feel guilty because you’ve been working late nights all month and your family is not getting enough of your time, for example, it could be a sign that you need to shift your priorities.

-Sarah Cooke