---
title: Shoulda Woulda Coulda
description: Shoulda Woulda Coulda
---

[Thrive To Lead by Kristen Schimtt](https://thrivetolead.com/blog)

# [Shoulda Woulda Coulda](https://thrivetolead.com/blog/shoulda-woulda-coulda)

 Written by [Kristen Schmitt](https://thrivetolead.com/blog/author/kristen-schmitt) | May 7, 2020 8:14:30 PM

A few weeks ago, I wrote about feeling anxious about what I was ***doing*** in these uncertain times. Instead, I would work on who I was ***being***.  This shift in focus was very helpful to me as we adjusted to our new normal.  
   
And then, we started talking about coming out of this...  
   
Once again, I felt uneasy. I fell back into the trap of  “what am I doing.”  
   
My quarantine project list is largely untouched. It's not even written down. My inner critic thought it would be fun to start in on all of the things I **SHOULD** have done over the last six weeks.   
   
I **SHOULD** have created the perfect 5-year business plan.  
I **SHOULD** have organized the kids’ closets.  
I **SHOULD** have gotten the scuffs off the walls.  
   
And on and on and on...  
   
Then, I caught myself. A year or two from now, what will have mattered?  
   
This glimpse into the future helped me let go of **SHOULD**...  
   
A year or two from now, I won’t remember whether I cleaned the baseboards or not.  
   
So, why should it matter right now?  
   
I ***am*** being the best possible partner for my clients.  
I ***am*** supporting my friends.  
I ***am ***staying in the moment with my family, even though I am a very mediocre substitute teacher.  
   
Be well, my friends.  
Tell that inner critic to **BACK OFF **and let go of the **SHOULDS. **  
Be kind to yourself and celebrate what you have done well.  
   
That matters.  

[View full post](https://thrivetolead.com/blog/shoulda-woulda-coulda)

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