Moving Past Guilt

Like many individuals, you may have done something which has left you feeling regret. Maybe you said something hurtful or did something that caused pain for someone you care about. Whatever it is that you have done, you may feel guilt and shame for your decisions and actions. You may now be feeling as if your conscience is burdened and may be wondering what to do next.

Guilt can be productive and generally is when it is short-lived, just enough to help you realize your mistake and encourage you to change. There can be little good that comes from languishing in unresolved guilt, in fact this type of guilt can even lead to depression, relationship problems, self-destructive behaviors, unexplained physical ailments and/or a myriad of other detrimental possibilities.

The Positives Aspects of Guilt

Guilt can serve an important role in your morality. When you’re about to do something or act against your values, guilt can be that gentle nudge that lets you feel that it may not be a good idea. Many individuals grow up with a value system instilled by their environment, such as their family or society. This internal set of beliefs can guide your actions. So, when you act in a way that is not congruent with this system, your guilt may tell you to stop and do something else.

The beneficial aspects of guilt can be felt during its initial stages, as it can prompt you to fix a mistake and may even help you to steer clear of possible transgressions. Healthy guilt can allow you to learn a lesson, change for the better and go on living with your sense of well-being intact.

When Guilt Becomes Harmful

Guilt can be a positive emotion, but it can easily become unhealthy if you choose to live in it. There can be a large difference between feeling guilty about wrongdoing and living in your guilt. Instead of using your own good judgment to right the wrong you have committed, you may begin to allow your guilt to imprison you with fear, shame and remorse. Sometimes, these feelings are so overwhelming that you try to hide what you’ve done. Your feelings of guilt may never remit if you lie and cover up the mistake as your guilt may continue to haunt you long after others have forgotten or forgiven you.

Moving Past Your Guilt

Guilt can have a rightful place, oftentimes this is within your subconscious. It can become detrimental when it persists. If you allow guilt to do its job of keeping you on the straight and narrow, it can naturally fade back to its rightful state. However, if guilt is already affecting the way you think and act, you may need help in order to move forward.

If you feel that your guilt has become toxic, is causing you distress or impacting your daily functioning, know that help is available. Don’t let your guilt hold you hostage. Turn to a professional licensed therapist contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC. Call now to get started. Online counseling and in person sessions are available.

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