Let go of negativity and forgive yourself and others from "summary" of The how of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky
To cultivate happiness, it is essential to release negative emotions and thoughts that may be weighing us down. Holding onto grudges, anger, or resentment towards ourselves or others can hinder our ability to experience joy and contentment. It is important to acknowledge our feelings and then actively work towards letting go of them. This process of forgiveness is not easy, but it is necessary for our own well-being. Forgiving ourselves can be particularly challenging, as we often hold onto guilt and shame for past mistakes or shortcomings. However, dwelling on these negative feelings only serves to keep us stuck in a cycle of self-blame and low self-esteem. By practicing self-compassion and understanding that we are all imperfect beings, we can begin to forgive ourselves and move forward with a renewed sense of positivity and self-acceptance. Similarly, forgiving others is crucial for our own peace of mind and happiness. Holding onto grudges or resentment towards someone who has wronged us only serves to keep us tethered to negative emotions. By choosing to let go of these negative feelings and extend forgiveness to others, we free ourselves from the burden of anger and bitterness. This act of forgiveness is not about condoning the actions of others but rather about releasing ourselves from the emotional weight of holding onto past grievances.- Letting go of negativity and practicing forgiveness towards ourselves and others is a powerful way to cultivate happiness in our lives. It requires effort and self-reflection, but the benefits of releasing these negative emotions are profound. By choosing to forgive and move forward with a sense of compassion and understanding, we open ourselves up to a greater sense of peace, contentment, and joy in our lives.
