Counsels on Wellness

Counsel #24 — Learn and Grow

Picture: Counsel #24 — Learn and Grow CWe 84.1

Viewing mistakes as opportunities to improve instead of failures is a great way to reduce stress in your life. Every challenge, although hard, teaches valuable lessons and helps you identify what went wrong and how to avoid similar issues in the future. CWe 84.2

When considering mistakes made due to stress, first ask yourself, “What could I have done differently?” Once you’ve answered this self-reflection question, the key is to not dwell on the mistake. Focus more on the lesson you learned rather than the consequence that happened because of the mistake. Another way to work through your faults is to seek constructive feedback from mentors or close peers. For example, if you made a poor financial decision due to being stressed, allowing someone financially stable to review your spending habits and help you set a budget can prevent future issues. Certainly, we can ask God to help us NOT make mistakes. But when we do slip up, make it your mission to learn from them.^[99] CWe 84.3

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” Proverbs 9:9 NIV CWe 84.4

“Allow no difficulties to discourage you. You have passed through trials, and you will be called to pass through trials again.” Ellen White in The Upward Look , p. 142 CWe 84.5

Reflect: Have you learned from past mistakes? If not, what went wrong? CWe 84.6