A new year brings so many new opportunities. Think what an opportunity to start a new habit, a new sport, a new hobby, set a new goal! Choose to let go of things that don't deserve to be held on to. Why not make an inventory of what can be phased out and make room for something new to enter? In order for the new to come in, the old needs to be cleared. When the old is cleared, there is a space for the new to come in, create a mood board, or visualizing what you wish to experience. You are the creator of your life, so what do you want to create? Be clear, set the intention and start taking small steps in that direction. But first, let go!

Here are some ways in which you can save yourself from the pain of holding on for too long and trust the process of letting go. 

Taking it one step at a time will accelerate the healing process

9 steps to mastering the art of letting go


1. Be your own saving grace

The only person who can help you heal and move on is yourself.

2. Practice acceptance

Once you’ve made the decision to let go, stop allowing it back in your life. Distance yourself from the person, place or thing which reminds you of your pain. In order for the wound to heal you must stop touching it. 

3. Have patience and faith

At times the hard decisions are the right ones. Just because it is difficult right now doesn’t mean it will always feel and stay the same. Practice patience and have faith in yourself.

4. Be your biggest fan

How you think, feel and talk to yourself plays a very important role in our lives. Be kind and compassionate towards yourself. How you speak to yourself helps in rewiring your thoughts.

5. Forgive

Forgiving someone can bring us peace and lift a huge burden off our shoulders. Forgiving someone for yourself simply means you won’t let what they did to you, weigh you down. Most important is forgiving yourself, that brings peace in your own space.

6. Acknowledge your feelings

Once you’ve made your peace with it, you can start to process your emotions. It’s important you don’t suppress them. There are plenty of ways to let out your emotions and thoughts. Talk to a friend, write in your journal or just think and feel the pain and emotions, acknowledge them and let go.

7. Focus on the present

It is important to not let your mind wander off too far. Thinking about the past or future can create anxiety or bring down your morale. Stay in the present and focus on what is happening right now.

8. Don’t wait for an apology

Chance are the other person might not apologise and you should be ready to accept that. Waiting for someone to apologise will slow down your healing process.

9. Reach out to your support system

Surround yourself with people who make your life fulfilling.

Best of luck, we wish you the best year ever!

*Based on article in The Express Tribune

December 31, 2022 — Anna Wretling