Past regret and guilt

 

Ever wonder why some people used to dwell in the Past? They used to regret the things which they have done in their Past and they wish they could undone an event. This all happened because of Counterfactual thinking. It's actually a human tendency to imagine various alternatives to events which have already occurred. Like your job is very dear to you but one-day you had an argument with your boss and the next day you fired from your Job. After a day you realized that the argument was totally illogical and it was your mistake then you feel  regret, guilt and anxiety and negative emotions because you continue to start blaming yourself.

 Everyone experienced something in their life which leads to prolonged sadness and regret like you were very excited for a job interview and you were sure that you will get this job which was your dream but on tha day of interview you got late and someone else hired for that job. This leads to severe guilt and regret..

Research shows that these kind of thoughts and regrets actually a sign of poor coping skills.

Besides it's negative side, Counterfactual thinking has also a positive side that it  prepare you to do better for the next time in the same situation.