The Twix with a Secret

Convenient Store

When I was in primary school, my friend and I hatched a plan that, at the time, felt both thrilling and terrifying.

We would steal candy bars from the convenience store. In my young mind, it seemed like a test of bravery, a way to prove that we weren’t just little kids who followed all the rules.

I imagined how it would feel to get away with it, like we were on some secret mission. It wasn’t about hunger; it was about the rebellion, the audacity of taking something that wasn’t ours.

I’ll never forget the way my heart pounded as I slid the Twix bar into my pocket and walked out of the store trying to look casual. On the inside, my body was screaming at me.

That night, I couldn’t sleep. We lived near the highway, and every time a siren blared past, my stomach twisted. In my mind, it was only a matter of time before the police would come knocking, handcuffs at the ready. The guilt was unbearable. 🚓

The next day, I made up an excuse to go back to the store alone.

With shaky hands, I snuck the Twix back onto the shelf, as if putting it back could erase the whole thing. And maybe, in a way, it did. The relief that washed over me was undeniable. But something else lingered—an understanding that guilt wasn’t just there to punish me; it was trying to guide me.

Let’s Unpack It! 💼

Years later, I’ve learned how guilt [below the awareness line], when acknowledged [above the awareness line] and directed, can move us toward a powerful perspective rather than keep us trapped in our ego.

THRIVE model

Using the THRIVE model, I’ve learned that guilt doesn’t have to keep us below the line—it can be an invitation to rise above it.

T – Take Ownership. Guilt thrives in secrecy. Reclaim your power. Facing the truth is the first step to transformation.

H – Hold Space for Learning. Rather than judging yourself as “bad,” instead ask, What is this guilt teaching me? Your conscience isn't trying to shame you; it wants your attention to remind you of the kind of person you want to be.

R – Reframe the Experience. Instead of replaying the mistake as proof of failure, reframe it as a moment of growth. The lesson isn't necessarily about stealing—it is about integrity, character, responsibility, and listening to your inner compass.

I – Initiate Repair. Sneaking the Twix back was my way of making amends. But as I’ve grown, I’ve learned that true repair begins with seeking forgiveness and choosing better actions moving forward.

V – Validate Progress. Use the guilt as proof of your higher values. Making mistakes doesn’t make us unworthy; choosing to grow from them makes us stronger.

E – Elevate with Action. Guilt isn’t just about feeling bad—it’s a signal to do better. The true test of growth is how we apply the lessons we’ve learned.

Guilt is the residual of fear. It draws our attention to the imbalance created by actions that do not align with our highest good. When met with courage and reflection, it’s a compass, guiding us toward powerful perspectives. 🧭

This lesson applies deeply to leadership and parenting.

Leaders must recognize their mistakes, take ownership, and model accountability, showing your teams that growth comes from learning rather than avoiding responsibility.

Parents, too, face moments of guilt—whether from losing patience, making a tough decision, or struggling to balance responsibilities. Instead of letting guilt weigh you down, use it as a guide to parent with awareness and intention.

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📌 [The Powerful Perspective] When we embrace guilt as a teacher rather than a judge, we create spaces where honesty, growth, and integrity thrive, both in the workplace and at home.

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