7 steps to letting go of the past

Is the past pulling you down, causing you to drag your feet, are you burdened by the weight on your mental, physical and emotional shoulders? Letting go of the past is easier said than done, of course, but it is not impossible, and can only be 'dropped off' by you. So here are seven simple steps to start you on your journey to letting go of the past.

How to let go of the past

Step 1 - Identify the past, what is it that you want to let go off.

Step 2
- Accept that you will not forget the past- memories do not vanish into thin air, what you choose to remember and hold on to is controlled by you.

Step 3
- Query the cost and benefits of holding on to the past. What really prevents you from moving forward? Is it you?

Step 4
- Consider the physical implications of holding on to the past- things like stress, headaches, pain, anxiety attacks.

Step 5
- What can you replace those negative memories, thoughts with, what gives you pleasure and enjoyment? where do you feel safe? at peace? in harmony?

Step 6
- What have you discovered by letting go of the past, who can you share it with?

Step 7
- Let the negative past, influence the positive future.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Counselling Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

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Derby, Derbyshire, DE24
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Written by Marvet Simpson, Reg MBACP Accred, Supervisor, Counsellor Couples Counsellor
Derby, Derbyshire, DE24

As an integrative therapist, I use CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) with clients as required. A key factor of this is to address the mentally crippling negative automatic thoughts and enable realistic, positive thoughts. Of course this is not easy, it comes with practice, but most of all, determination. We all have the capacity to change.

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