Challenge "should" statements to reduce guilt from "summary" of Feeling Great by David Burns
In one of the most common cognitive distortions, people often use the word "should" to criticize themselves. When you tell yourself that you "should" do something, you are essentially setting high and often unrealistic expectations for yourself. This can lead to feelings of guilt and self-criticism when you inevitably fall short of these expectations. One way to combat this harmful pattern of thinking is to challenge these "should" statements. By questioning the validity of these demands you place on yourself, you can start to break free from the cycle of guilt and self-blame. Ask yourself: Why do I believe I "should" do this? Where did this expectation come from? Is it really true that I must do this? By examining the evidence for and against these "should" statements, you can begin to se...
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