Mastering Emotions to Prevent Regrets

In today's fast-paced life, it is so easy to give in to emotions that can result in unwanted words and actions. Expert advice reminds us that maintaining inner stability and peace of mind is the key to successfully overcoming any trial, whether physical or spiritual. The main point is to act with a clear mind—viewing every criticism or remark as an opportunity for personal growth rather than a reason for negativity.

At the heart of these recommendations is the importance of controlling one's feelings. When strong emotional agitation arises, it is wise to take a step back and let the waves subside before speaking or acting. This approach not only helps avoid impulsive actions but also boosts confidence in the correctness of one’s decisions. Instead of reacting with fluctuating emotions, we should consider remarks with sober self-assessment, exhibit humility, and accept responsibility for our actions. After all, sincere admission of mistakes and open discussion of difficulties strengthen our belief in our own rightness and lay the foundation for further achievements.

In conclusion, it is emphasized that developing patience and the ability to control our emotions is an investment that pays off many times over. By acting on deep inner conviction and following the principles of honesty with ourselves and others, we not only prevent potential regrets but also set our lives on the path of true development. This approach makes us stronger, wiser, and fosters harmonious relationships with the world around us.

How can one avoid regrets when, in hindsight, it becomes clear that words and actions were directed at the wrong people?

To avoid regrets over words or actions aimed at the wrong people, it is important to follow several principles of inner stability and self-control. First and foremost, one should maintain peace of mind—even when sorrow or regret occurs—and face such moments with patience and humility. For example, as mentioned in one source, when someone calls your attention to a problem with your behavior, you should calmly admit your fault and ask for forgiveness:

"Strive to succeed so that when sorrow occurs—whether physical or spiritual—you can bear it without sadness, without burden, and with patience. When you hear that you have done something you did not do, do not be surprised or upset; instead, immediately bow with humility to the one who told you this, saying, 'forgive me and pray for me,' and then remain silent, as the fathers have prescribed. And when he asks you whether it is true or not, then bow with humility and recount the truth as it happened, and after speaking, again bow with humility, saying, 'forgive me, and pray for me.'"
(source: 749_3742.txt)

At the same time, it is crucial to learn to control your feelings so that impulsive urges do not lead to misdirected words or actions. If such feelings begin to arise, it is wise to refrain from immediate speech or action, let those feelings subside, and only then act based on inner convictions and commandments, which will help avoid subsequent regrets:

"If you do not allow these feelings to arise, everything comes to an end—for everything originates from feelings; but if even a small amount arises, if possible, refrain from speaking or doing anything until those feelings have subsided; if it is not possible to refrain from speaking or acting, then try to speak and act not based on those feelings but according to the commandments, as God instructs, meekly and quietly—as if nothing had happened."
(source: 1797_8981.txt)

Furthermore, it is important not to silence the voice of conscience with false feelings of shame, but rather to acknowledge one’s mistakes. Fulfilling one’s conscience by openly admitting errors helps to alleviate the bitterness of regret and reinforces the inner sense of rightness:

"We must not silence the voice of conscience with false shame; rather, by overcoming false shame, we should act according to our conscience—specifically, by confessing our sin before our spiritual father, and sometimes even before many people. Thus, when the conscience speaks, shame is often (though not always) false. And the feeling of genuine shame frequently accompanies not evil deeds, but good ones."
(source: 739_3693.txt)

Thus, to avoid regrets, one should work on developing patience, controlling one’s feelings, and being honest with oneself and others. Accepting responsibility for one’s actions and humbly admitting mistakes not only helps eliminate regrets but also steers future behavior in the right direction.