There’s nothing better than nostalgic memories of the past. Fondly recalling times spent with family and friends or an achievement you’re especially proud of. Happy memories are an important part of the past and often feel warm when we recall them.
Yet, not all memories are positive and some haunt us and remind us of their consequences. Whether through no fault of our own, or due to our choices, some memories of the past cause trauma and linger in the present…and future.
Holding on to the Past Can Keep You Stuck
Holding on to past hurts, lost hopes, or resentments can keep us stuck. It’s hard to move forward when you can’t or won’t let go of yesterday, but it’s the only way to make peace with the past and shift towards a new and better future.
Whether you hold resentment towards others, feel stuck in the ‘glory days’, or have unfinished and unresolved business, you’ve got to get closure to plan for the future.
Letting Go isn’t Easy but It’s Worth it
Letting go of the past is an act of self-care. It’s a process that doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, it may take some time but in the end it’s worth the effort.
If you need to let go of something you regret, practicing gentleness and mindfulness helps. Doing the work you need to forgive and find closure is possible on your own or with help.
If you need to move past a trauma or forgive someone else, give yourself time to sort through the issue and come to the best terms possible.
You Can Have Closure Even Without an Apology
Sometimes letting go of the past requires moving on without the closure you deserve or desire. You may not be able to offer or receive an important apology or ask the burning questions you need to better understand why something happened. Regardless, you can learn to let go and move on, even without the closure.
Give Yourself and Others Grace
Letting go requires offering yourself and others the grace to have been wrong or hurtful in the past but making space for something new in the future. Having the courage to be fallible and recognize the shortcomings of others can help you find compassion and mercy even for deep wounds.
The Future Offers More Than the Past
Living in the past and hoping for a different present won’t create the future you want. The past only offers memories and lessons. It’s the future that offers possibilities. Letting go and focusing on the future can bring the happiness and fulfillment you’ve been chasing.
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