Like anyone else, I've faced my fair share of life's challenges. No one sails through life without encountering a few speed bumps along the way. The question that often plagues many of us is, how do we stop letting our past interfere and hold us back from moving forward? How do we truly "let go" of that hurt?
First and foremost, it's important to understand that letting go does not equate to moving on and erasing our past experiences. Our past is an integral part of who we are today, and we can't simply forget what we've been through or the lessons we've learned. However, it's equally vital to acknowledge the yearning to move forward, as it signifies the right direction. Once we become attached to something, whether it's a person, an experience, or something else entirely, letting go can prove to be an incredibly challenging task. It becomes our responsibility to delve into why those events occurred and why certain emotions are tethered to them.
Moving forward may be daunting, but I'm here to provide you with some valuable tips to help shape your future positively:
Be Intentional: Letting go of the past begins with setting intentions. Make a commitment to yourself and allocate the time and effort you deserve.
Take Your Time: The process of letting go is not linear, and it varies from person to person. It's perfectly normal to need time to sit with your feelings and process them. This helps you transition to a more peaceful and centered place when reflecting on the past, rather than being overwhelmed by triggers. According to Holly Richmond, Ph.D., LMFT, separating past experiences from your current reality can open the door to future possibilities and hopefulness.
Use Affirmations/Mantras: Affirmations and mantras can be powerful tools. Consider using phrases like:
"That was then, this is now."
"I choose to let go of the past."
"I am ready to move on."
"I am more than what has happened to me."
"I embrace new beginnings."
Practice Mindfulness: Yes, you've heard it before, but mindfulness is a crucial practice for letting go of the past. Focus on the present and what is instead of dwelling on what was.
Another valuable tip is to seek the silver linings. Committing to finding the positives in the midst of negatives can be challenging, but it's immensely rewarding. For instance, during the pandemic, millions of people, including myself, faced job layoffs. However, this situation led me to discover my passion for life coaching, something incredibly fulfilling. Rather than dwelling on the past and harboring resentment towards my former employer, I chose to find the silver lining in my circumstances. You can do this too!
All of this requires effort, but I have full confidence in your ability to let go of that hurt. If you're in need of an extra push, motivation, or someone to support you on this journey, and ready to invest in yourself, please don't hesitate to reach out for a session. Together, we can work towards your personal growth and a brighter future.
Warm regards,
Sharif Colbert
(LifeCoachATL)
