Fix the Guilt, Not Just the Air Conditioner

An air conditioner unit in need of repair

I should have fixed the air conditioner.”

That statement felt like an understatement on a sweltering 90-degree day in early summer.

My client, clearly sweating through our virtual meeting, voiced his regret while I could practically hear the drip of frustration through the screen.

I challenged, “Sure, it’s obvious now. But when exactly was that supposed to happen?”

He paused. I could see the realization land.

The truth was, there hadn’t really been a window of time to deal with it.

Life is a constant prioritization exercise. Just because something is necessary doesn’t mean it automatically becomes the most important.

The heat was uncomfortable. But the guilt he felt started to melt away, too.

If everything is a priority, nothing is. The key isn’t doing it all. It’s being clear what matters most. And letting the rest wait, without shame.