I love this guide to making a good confession. Check it out. Here are some excerpts:
Sacramental confession is no formality. It is a decisive stage in the long process of our moral conversion. It is the key to peace of mind and improvement. But, in order to obtain these benefits, we must be clear about some fundamental truths and apply them to our personal situation.
.....
The most important thing is not to go to confession, but to make a good confession, i.e.,
- to approach this sacrament sincerely sorry for our sins;
- to confess them in all humility and honesty;
- to be ready to make amends for them;
- to be determined to avoid committing sin in the future, and to live according to Gods will.