Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda: Overcoming Regrets, Mistakes, and Missed Opportunities

This reference describes exercises and techniques that can change one's self-defeating thoughts and behaviors

This popular presentation of cognitive therapy addresses the crippling effects of regrets about the past. The therapeutic approach, developed by Aaron T. Beck, psychiatrist at the University of Pennsylvania who provides the preface, is demonstrated in chapters that present situations wherein the destructive behavior described by the title is accompanied by techniques for change. Coming to terms with past failures and other disabling events requires action to "unblock" the past and to gain perspective. Practical exercises and programs to promote forward thinking and peace of mind are included in this useful exposition of cognitive therapy. Freeman ( Cognitive Therapy of Cognitive Disorders ) teaches at the University of Pennsylvania; DeWolf writes for the Philadelphia Daily News. First serial to Ladies' Home Journal.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

We have all made mistakes or had unfortunate things happen to us. Some of us let these negative events so overwhelm us that we cannot build our futures. Freeman and DeWolf show us how cognitive therapy can help us break out of the restrictions of the past by correcting wrong thinking that includes overgeneralization (because I picked the wrong spouse, I will always make the wrong choice) and perfectionism (because my work was not perfect I am disgraced). It is not easy to break out of these patterns of wrong thinking, but the authors offer simple and effective ways to do so. This easy-to-read book provides an excellent example of cognitive therapy at work.
- John Moryl, Yeshiva Univ. Lib., New York
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.