> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dota2.tome.gg/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dota2.tome.gg/mental-models/dont-carry-rocks.md).

# Don't carry rocks

Things feel overwhelming and burdensome.

### Problem

* You or other people around you whose opinions matter to you, berate you and put you down.
* You doubt your capabilities.
* You remember your past mistakes and you feel overwhelming embarrassment or feel asamed.

### Recommendation

<figure><img src="/files/WNm7rLV0LBou4nw966Rf" alt=""><figcaption><p>Accept the truth. Don't let your fear or ego get in the way of grounding yourself and making progress.</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Accept the truth** - If you did make a mistake, face it and own up to it. Acknowledge the truth that you did something wrong.

<figure><img src="/files/gjH0xUqf2Q99Kse9CxRu" alt=""><figcaption><p>Learn to forgive yourself, and use whatever mistakes you've made as a lesson.</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Forgive yourself** - If you did make a mistake, acknowledge it and learn from it. Understand exactly why you made the mistake, and make commitments to not make the same mistake.

<figure><img src="/files/vG4QkTr2TXahFgmSpcZW" alt=""><figcaption><p>Learn to command your focus not on the errors of the past and the risks of the future. Focus your attention!</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Don't waste energy; focus your attention** - Focus your energy and efforts into doing better next time. Don't waste energy on bringing yourself down.

<figure><img src="/files/ITAZc7zmdKtUDUo7BHmW" alt=""><figcaption><p>The journey is long. Take only what you need.</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Conserve your energy.** The journey is far, and you have much to accomplish. Don't waste your time and energy carrying unneeded baggage that will weigh you down.

### Effective use

* **TBD**

### Misuse

* **TBD**

### References

* [**The mountain (my personal blog)**](https://sapalo.dev/2020/01/28/the-mountain/) - A blog post on how to overcome great challenges and to sustainably accomplish difficult things.