Many times in life, we are presented with an opportunity to forgive someone. A person will ask for forgiveness for something they said or did, hoping for acceptance and amnesty. Often, people find they can extend that courtesy to someone else, yet they find it difficult to forgive themselves. This double standard can do real damage to personal growth and self-esteem.
Ways to Learn to Forgive Yourself
Temporarily feeling guilt can be a healthy emotion that spurs a person to make things right or vow not to repeat a mistake. When guilt turns to shame and consumes a person’s thoughts and self-perception, it becomes a problem. Practice saying the words out loud: I forgive myself. Write the phrase down and place it in an area where you will see it daily. Journal about your quest to stop being your own worst critic. When a negative voice pops up in your head, remind yourself that you have embraced forgiveness and move on. It will take practice to learn the art of forgiving yourself, but the benefits will last a lifetime.
Turn the Tables
Imagine someone you love asked you to grant them forgiveness. Would you be able to see them in a different light than you place yourself? Would you understand that they had done something they genuinely regretted, spent time considering how to make amends, and were sincere in their commitment not to repeat their mistake? You could likely extend compassion to them and accept their apology. Do not make yourself the exception to this way of living your life. You deserve a clean slate and a new beginning as much as anyone else.
When it comes to forgiveness, many people find it much easier to forgive others than themselves. When a person becomes accustomed to living with large amounts of shame and guilt because they cannot forgive themselves for things they did in the past, they often feel emotionally crippled. Valiant Living offers treatment for various mood disorders and can help you learn to forgive yourself and move past the memories and self-doubt that have held you back. We provide a variety of services, including residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs. We also treat the abuse of alcohol or drugs. Let our treatment professionals help you learn to reconnect with yourself and others to return home with renewed hope, feel better about who you are becoming, and ready to embrace your worth. Call us today at (303) 952-5035 to find out how our men-only facilities near Denver can jump-start your life!
