Why do we sometimes find ourselves repeating the same mistakes over and over again? We have all heard folks talk about how experience makes you wiser, but still we find ourselves committing the same mistakes. The fact is that experience only helps us if we take the time to analyze what went wrong and determine how we could have avoided the mistake the first time. That process has to be approached with a sincere willingness to recognize when we are the problem, when it was our poor judgment that led to the mistake. It is always easier to look for someone else to blame rather than take responsibility for our own deficits. Recognizing this truth is the first step towards an honest evaluation of our past mistakes.
Why start with you, with a self examination? Simple, when looking at repeated mistakes look for the common denominator. You are clearly going to be the first common denominator that needs scrutiny. What did you do or fail to do that may have led to the problem? Addressing those findings is the first critical step you must take before you can address any other contributing factors. If you keep making the same mistakes at work, dating the same losers, having the same arguments with your spouse, and so forth, then you need to start by addressing your actions. If you need help, ask someone you trust who will give you good advice. Please remember the humility piece, don’t ask for truth if you can’t handle the truth.
Once you’ve identified the challenges, then do something about them. Be intentional on making change happen in your life so you don’t repeat the same mistakes. Focus on your emotional maturity, being self-aware will help you keep your challenges in check. Use your strengths to help you compensate for your challenges, understanding you can avoid repeating the same mistakes by planning to do better and being intentional about it. Just a little advice to go!
