We ran this post last year at this time – about the time that women start beating themselves up for not sticking to their New Year’s resolutions. If that sounds like you, then today’s post by Darla can provide some helpful insights.

There is something about the New Year that invites the word “should” into our lives. 

“I should have de-cluttered my house last weekend” or “I should have been to the gym 5 times this week” or “I should weigh less by now.”

1. understanding the trap
2. choosing to change
3. recognizing the “should” in my thoughts and emotions
4. releasing the “should”
5. looking inward to find my authentic self

I would contend that the more we “should” ourselves, the more rebellious we are likely to become. If I say to myself “I should go on a diet,” I immediately find myself driving to the store and buying 3 candy bars.

So instead of “shoulding” ourselves, how about operating from a place of desire, or want, or possibility?  The more we take the pressure off and let go of the “should” word, the more we can come from place of exploration and experimentation.

How can you decrease the “shoulds” in your mind?

Photo by xlordashx