From my latest article at The Blazing Center:
“Should” is a word which needs to be relegated to the second string, a backup word which is used sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. When we overuse “should” we build paper mache reality full of guilt, regret and unfulfilled hopes.
I should exercise more.
You should show up at work earlier.
I should have studied more in college.
He should have done his part of the project.
I should be able to get that to you this week.
She should be here soon.
We should be ok.
It should work.
Should, should, should. It’s a word of unfulfilled expectations, an indication that things are not as they ought to be but without certainty that they will be repaired.
. . .