Letting go of the past is often likened to shedding a weight that hinders one’s present and future. It is a time for one to let bygones be bygones. However, reaching a destination of freedom and acceptance is no easy feat.
Fortunately, there are ways to let go of the past.
The mental health information and news publication Psych Central shares that letting go of the past may mean different things to different people and also depends on the person’s situation.
So, see below if the following five tips will help you on your life’s journey of letting go of the past to be present in the future.
1. Practise self-compassion
Try showing yourself care, forgiveness, and kindness, and change your self-talk. The health and wellness publication Medical News Today states that this involves recognising when negative thoughts arise and replacing them with positive ones.
“Keeping a self-compassion journal can be a good way to practice this skill,” adds the info hub.
2. Take responsibility
If you feel guilt, embarrassment, or shame about the past, taking responsibility for your role in a particular situation can help. Medical News Today says, “This does not mean blaming oneself, but simply acknowledging what happened and taking ownership of past actions.”
3. Focus on the lessons
Think about what you have learned about relationships, love, yourself, and life from your hurtful past experiences, notes Psych Central. To aid in letting go of the past, consider focusing on the following positive lessons:
- The sense that everything passes, and this too shall pass.
- Who showed up for you and proved you can rely on them.
- The coping skills you may have developed to face life challenges.
- How strong and resilient you may be.
4. Commit to letting go
“The first step toward letting go is realising that it is necessary and feeling ready to do so,” shares Medical News Today. “This can happen at different times for different people, but once someone makes this decision, it can be empowering.”
5. Consider seeking professional help
Psych Central states: “Whether you live with trauma, experience anxiety or another mental health disorder, or may be facing relationship resentment, a mental health professional can help you let go and release your emotional pain.”
