Why Dwelling on the Past is Destructive

As I continue to read Amy Morin’s book on “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.” I wanted to share with you her chapter on “They Don’t Dwell On the Past”. She is quoted as saying:

“Although self-reflection is healthy, dwelling (on the past) can be self-destructive, preventing you from enjoying the present and planning for the future. But you don’t have to stay stuck in the past. You can choose to start living in the moment.

Refusing to dwell on the past doesn’t mean you pretend the past didn’t happen. In fact, it often means embracing and accepting your experience so you can live in the present. Doing so frees up your mental energy and allows you to plan for your future based on who you want to become., not who you used to be. Anger, shame, and guilt can run your life if you’re not careful. Letting go of this emotion helps you to be in charge of your life.

If you spend all your time looking in the rearview mirror, you can’t look out the windshield. Staying stuck in the past will prevent you from enjoying the future. Recognize times when you are dwelling on the past and take the steps necessary to heal your emotions so you can move forward.”

Sometimes we use a little help in getting us pointed down the right direction. This is where using a Life Coach can be helpful.

 You say you don’t have time to meet with a Life Coach? Well you can now meet face-to-face using our video technology with a Life Coach online from the privacy of your home. At a time that is convenient for you. All you need is a laptop computer, tablet or smart phone with Wi-Fi connection or cell signal.

If you would like to learn more about how online Life Coaching works and would like to get a free 30-minute video session with one of our Life Coaches. Just click on the blue button below to find out more.