We obsess over past miscarriages of justice or fairness that hurt us: the ex who broke your heart, the company that fired you for stupid reasons, or the drive-thru restaurant that got your order wrong. These feelings activate our impulse to exact retribution or punish the people or institutions who have “done us wrong.” It’s draining at best and self-sabotage at worst. When you act to address animosity and malice, you certainly don’t address your goals.
