“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” — Søren Kierkegaard
Our past is an important part of our history (it shapes who we are today, after all), but it can also be our biggest nemesis — one that’s holding us back from growing into the person we truly want to be and living the life that’s calling us.
All of us have things we’re not exactly proud of when looking back: Opportunities missed, bad judgment calls in love and life, disappointing people we never wanted to hurt, all those “shoulda, woulda, coulda’s” that can come back to haunt us.
Even though we know there is no time-machine and we can’t do a thing to change what’s been done, we still sometimes torture ourselves, living life in the rearview mirror.
While we can learn from our mistakes, we often look back on them far after the learning is done. And dwelling on what’s behind us keeps us from moving forward and getting what we’re really after.
Do you avoid taking on big projects at work because you’re reminded of that presentation that didn’t go well? Or do you have trouble dating because you keep thinking about what went wrong in your last relationship?
Recognize when your past is getting in the way of your present and future and tell yourself, “I won’t stumble over something that’s behind me.”
One last thing to remember, Savvy: People may remind you of your past, and not in a supportive way. Family members might joke about how many good ideas you’ve had that haven’t come to fruition, or friends may bring up your past failed loves. Don’t let these people bring you down or cause you to get caught back up in what you’ve already moved on from.
They may love you, but they’re doing more harm than good.
One of the best ways to move into the life we want is by not looking back on the one we had.
Forgive yourself and move forward. And if you find yourself wanting to kick yourself for whatever was, know those kicks hurt you, and make the decision to leave your past in the dust.
It’s time to move onwards and upwards!
Quote du jour
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” — Mother Teresa
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
