Where do You Live Everyday?

In the Past?  In the Future?  In the Present?

There is a famous quote that I love to share simply because it is the most valuable lesson you will teach yourself.

If you are feeling depressed, think very carefully about where you're living.  Are you mulling over the past?  Going over situations that occurred yesterday, a decade ago, last week?  Are you focused on how you were mistreated in some past relationship? Or some other "thing", "person", or "situation" that happened oh so long ago?

Be honest with yourself and really sit down and think about what you're thinking about.

Change happens when you realize that it's time to clear the clutter and release the dusty old things and make room for fresh new things.

Feeling sorry for yourself, angry toward others, guilty, or ashamed for getting the short end of the stick in the past will only continue to keep you from achieving happiness in the present and future.

How to clear the dusty clutter of the past:

The Past Isn't Going to Get Any Better:  That's right.  Recognize that you can't go back and change, fix, improve, or otherwise manage your past.  It's Over...It's Done and no amount of holding on to it, focusing on it, crying over it will change it.

Learn From the Past:  Look at your past and ask yourself - What Did I Learn?  How Do I Want To Apply The Lesson to My Present and Future?

Let It Go:  Hanging onto the past with angry and resentment and hurt feelings will do absolutely nothing to improve your present.  You are simply carrying a heavy ball and chain around your ankle everywhere you go.  Do you want to drag the chains of the past with you?

Choose Forgiveness:  Forgiveness is a conscious choice.  Forgive yourself and forgive those who have wronged you.  Forgiveness frees you to live your life, pursue your dreams, look forward with joy to the future, and enjoy every moment of the present!

It's easier to forgive others when you practice forgiving yourself.

As you reflect on your life, what could you forgive yourself for? 

When you have clarity on something that could be forgiven, say to yourself: 

I forgive myself for ________________     Then let it go. 

Next Post:  Living in the Future....Til next time Listen, Recognize, Learn and Forgive