What do you do when you mess up? If you spill something, your first reaction might be like those in the Bounty paper towel commercials—letting out a big “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” as you scramble for a towel.

But what about when you mess up…with people?

Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to avoid others. Instead of seeing our coworkers face to face, we communicate through email or text. Even in video conferences, we can keep our cameras turned off. So, when we wrong someone, it’s tempting to just “move on.” But do we…really?

Chances are, we don’t. When things remain unresolved, we carry a burden of fear—fear of consequences, conflict, rejection, or even loss. This takes a toll on our minds, bodies, health, relationships, and productivity.

Instead of lugging around this burden, embrace the joy of accountability. Although the word may sound like a prison, it actually offers freedom.

When you wrong someone—or even if they think you wronged them—think of it like spilled milk. Run to the problem, not away from it. And don’t delay. The longer you postpone conflict, the harder it becomes to address.

Today’s Peace of Wisdom can be found in quickly cleaning up our mishaps.