Don't should on yourself

should, verb used to indicate obligation, duty, or correctness, typically when criticizing someone's actions.

I've been working earnestly to remove the word should from my vocabulary and now whenever I hear it, it gives me a very uneasy feeling. 

"I should have eaten better this week."

"You should get a better job."

It just feels icky, right?

Try this instead:

"I could have eaten better this week."

"You could get a better job."

Change one word and reduce your criticism production, whether directed at yourself or others. Give yourself the freedom to make better choices without all the guilt. 

Life is hard enough as it is. Don't should on yourself, too.