Quantum physicists and spiritual teachers tell us that time and space are not what we think they are; they are not real, only illusions. However as humans who are penalized for late payments and dislike being early for a party, they certainly seem real. And there is one part of that illusion to which we unwittingly give our attention, energy, and sometimes our power. The past. Illusion or not, our lives are more enjoyable when we are free of unhelpful patterns and burdens born from experiences that are now in our rearview mirror.
As the amazing author Louise Hay once stated, “Would you really dig into yesterday’s garbage to make tonight’s meal? Do you dig into old mental garbage to create tomorrow’s experiences? If a thought or belief does not serve you, let it go!” Brilliant analogy.
It is an important starting point to recognize that it is not helpful nor is it necessary to keep looping back into what transpired long ago to create our reality today. But how, exactly, do we do that? How do we let it go?
Here are 4 steps to help free you from your past.
1. We can’t be free from something of which we are not aware. Either journaling or mulling it over on a walk, ask yourself what is it in your past that’s limiting you now? Bring it into the bright light of your awareness. Just by doing this step alone, its grip begins to loosen.
2. Practice forgiveness, either of yourself or other people. This is not meant to minimize any trauma you may have suffered, but when we insist on holding onto resentments and bitterness, it is ourselves we hurt, ourselves we shackle, our happiness we truncate. Forgiveness is not saying that whatever happened is okay, or that we need to accept someone back into our lives. No. Forgiveness means you set your heart & psyche free from the impact of that experience.
3. Focus your attention on the present moment. This is where your power lies. Only in the Now can you choose differently. Only in this moment can you alter your beliefs and choose to see yourself as the powerful creator that you are. You are free of the past when you are fully present.
4. Tell a happier story. When we give the past power over our present, it usually comes in the form of a sad story; something we did, or failed to do, or something that was done, or not done, to us. That narrative keeps us stuck. Transcend that story by telling a new one. Tell a story of how you are in charge of your mind and your life. Tell a story of worth and joy and possibility and love. Write this out and read it often. The repetition creates new neural pathways in your brain that result in better thoughts and states of being.
So let the garbage of yesterday sit out at the curb for removal. Create you life experience from the love in your heart and the dreams of your soul. It’s a far better recipe for a fulfilling life.
If you would like support in letting go of the past or if I can help in any way, please reach out to schedule a coaching session. I would be honored to work with you!
