Look up the story of the prodigal son. Was his repentence perfect? In large part, it was about self preservation. I think as we come before God, offering our wills to Him, over time He gives us a greater sense of the true nature and effect of sin, how it divides us from Him and his infinite love, and how it damages our ability to selflessly love others as He commanded. Initially, it might be mostly an intellectual recognition that it is wrong and a sincere vow to change. Or, we might see some negative result of sin in the natural realm that registers with us, and makes us want to pursue an alternate path. I don’t think we always need perfect contrition, because most times we are not capable of that. But we do need to pledge that we will strive to avoid this sin going forward. I have struggled with some repetive sins myself in my life. And I have also had this same question as you - am I sorry enough? Sorry enough for God to forgive me, yes, I have come to believe this. But I need to change on a deeper level, and this is an ongoing process, opening my soul up to His grace to truly change me, submitting areas of weakness to Him.
Turning our wills over to God is not easy.
So I’d say yes, turn toward God in confession, repenting of your sins, and accept His mercy. And don’t beat yourself up that you may not “feel” sorry enough. Take heart that God forgives you. But know that this is just the beginning of a journey of conversion. Lay these sins and failings before the foot of the cross - and seek a deeper conversion of your will to God’s. Prayer, sacraments, fellowship with other Christians (including the Saints too!), and spiritual reading/materials too. I have EWTN radio in my car, and I can’t tell how much that has really helped me. As your soul truly becomes more God-oriented, I think there will be more of a “feeling” of sorrow for sins.
Since I’ve had the same question as you, I wanted to share my thoughts and experiences - but I am interested in what others might say too.
