"El tiempo que pasas odiando a alguien te roba tu propio tiempo. Literalmente te estás odiando a ti mismo y ni siquiera te das cuenta."

It’s all about the simple truth that harboring hate or resentment for someone else ends up being more damaging to you than the person you're directing it toward. Think about it—every minute you spend stewing over someone's actions, replaying grudges in your mind, or plotting some kind of revenge is a minute you’ve lost forever. That time could have been spent doing something that actually makes you happy or moves your life forward. Instead, it’s wasted in a negative loop.

Historically, this idea has been echoed by philosophers and spiritual leaders for centuries. Buddha famously said, "Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned." It’s a concept that’s stood the test of time because it speaks to a universal human experience. We've all been there—caught in a cycle of negativity that feels impossible to shake. But recognizing that the cycle is self-imposed can be the first step to breaking free.

Picture this: You have a friend, let's call her Sarah, who had a falling out with a co-worker over a project. Instead of moving on, Sarah spends her lunch breaks fuming about how unfair the situation was. She rehashes the story with anyone who will listen, losing valuable time she could be enjoying her meal, catching up with friends, or even just relaxing. This constant focus on negativity starts to affect her mood, her productivity, and even her health. She’s more stressed and anxious, all because she can't let go of that anger.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by being mindful of your thoughts. When you catch yourself dwelling on negative emotions, take a step back and ask, "Is this helping me in any way?" More often than not, the answer will be no. Shifting your focus from the person you’re upset with to something you’re grateful for can make a huge difference. Practicing gratitude is a powerful tool. It doesn’t have to be anything grand—appreciating a sunny day, a good cup of coffee, or a pleasant conversation can shift your mindset.

Imagine you're at a coffee shop with your best friend. You're venting about how your boss totally overlooked your hard work on a recent project. You're angry, and rightfully so. But your friend leans in and says, “You know, all this time you’re spending being angry is just making you more miserable. What if you used that energy to find a new project to get excited about or even start looking for a new job where they’ll appreciate you?” Suddenly, it clicks. You realize that the anger, the frustration—it’s only holding you back.

In life, we have limited time. Spending precious moments on negativity is like throwing those moments away. Instead, focus on what you can control, what brings you joy, and what propels you forward. Next time you find yourself caught in a spiral of resentment, remember—you’re only hating on yourself. Take a deep breath, let it go, and give that time back to yourself. You deserve it.