It can be tricky to “let go” of past traumas but hanging on to the past can negatively impact your future happiness and growth as a person. Though it’s easier said than done, there are several reasons why letting go of the past would be beneficial to your mental health and happiness in the future. Here’s how to let go of the past and focus all of your energy on only the positive to become more of a forgiving person.
Benefits Of Letting Go Of The Past
Letting Go Improves Relationships
Refusing to let go of past anger or hurt and bringing it into your current relationships will only cause resentment. And it’s no secret that feelings of resentment could be positively detrimental to any relationship. If you refuse to let go of the past, it could harm your relationships in the present with those that you care about. If you can let go of little relationship grievances (especially the ones already addressed by you and the other party) you’ll find that all of the relationships in your life improve. Not just the romantic ones!
Improves Your Mental Health
Dwelling on the past can cause serious mental health problems like depression and severe anxiety. Instead, force yourself to think in the present only. Chances are, you’ll feel better mentally. Of course, if you are struggling with a severe mental health problem of any kind, it’s best to consult a professional before making any permanent lifestyle changes. Doctors do know best and these could be symptoms of a larger problem.
Improves Your Self Esteem
Not only is your mental health improved when ridding yourself of the past, but it can help improve your self-esteem as well. After all, it kind of goes hand in hand doesn’t it? When you feel better mentally, all areas of your life are bound to see the same improvements. Improved relationships, mental health, and self-esteem? Now that’s something I can really get behind.
How To Get Better At Letting Go Of The Past
To effectively let go of your past, try to do the following:
–Recognize the value of forgiveness. Do you owe apologies to anyone? Is there someone in your life who you need to forgive?
–Don’t see yourself as a victim. When you forgive, you no longer give the offender a certain kind of control of your life.
–Write in a journal. Work through your emotions and traumas in a healthy way, like that of a journal. Additionally, you can participate in guided meditation, exercise classes, or anything else that you can relate to.
-Practice empathy. The best way to effectively let things go is by practicing empathy in your daily life. By empathizing with others, you can place yourself in their shoes, and maybe you can understand why they reacted the way that they did.
