James was talking today about the difference between reflection and rumination. I think confusion of these two ideas has done a lot of harm to psychology in particular and in society in general.
Rumination is about stewing over something. Going back over part mistakes and hurts and chewing over the emotions and blame associated with them. Regretting what was or was not done or said and lamenting missed opportunities.
Reflection is about learning from past mistakes and hurts and using them as learning experiences to make things better next time. Realizing that the past cannot be changed, but that it can contribute to a better future. Realizing that the past is part of us, but doesn't have to dominate the future. Seeing what went wrong last time can be the first step to doing things differently next time.
Maybe psychiatry is useful after all!
No comments:
Post a Comment