From “I Should” to “I Could”: Releasing Shame and Reclaiming Choice

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Have you ever noticed how a simple shift in language can
completely transform how you feel? In this enlightening episode,
I share a powerful insight from my conversation with the
incredibly talented Kristen Anderson Lopez about what I call
"energetic choice."

We dive deep into the transformative power of shifting from "I
should" (which keeps us trapped in shame) to "I could" (which
places us in capability) and finally to "Do I want to?" (which
restores our power of choice). This simple but profound
linguistic shift completely changes our relationship with
ourselves and our decisions. Through personal examples and
practical wisdom, we explore how these subtle language changes
can liberate us from shame-based thinking and reconnect us with
our authentic desires.

The conversation naturally extends to how we perceive others. We
discuss the liberating truth that everyone is always doing their
best in any given moment with the resources they have available.
Rather than judging the person looking at their phone while
walking up subway stairs, what if we engaged our imagination to
create empathetic possibilities about their situation? This
creative reframing not only exercises our empathy muscles but
prevents us from creating unnecessary suffering for ourselves
through judgment.

This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how language
shapes our reality and how small shifts in thinking can create
profound changes in our daily experience. Whether you're
struggling with self-judgment or finding yourself irritated by
others, these insights provide practical tools for bringing more
compassion, choice, and even playfulness into challenging
moments. Stay tuned for the full conversation with Kristen
Anderson Lopez dropping next week on "Stop Time Live in the
Moment" – but in the meantime, this nugget of wisdom might just
transform how you move through your day.


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