Looking back keeps me from moving forward. Why would I waste my time and make myself feel bad by looking back at times of my past that I am embarrassed by? My past is worthless to me; I’d rather just forget it and pretend it never happened because it reminds me of a me that I do not like.

Have you ever felt this way?

Have you ever been so embarrassed by your past that you deny it or ignore the fact that it happened?

In all honesty, I’m embarrassed to look back at my past when I was so weak because I hardly ever worked out. I think I’m even more embarrassed by how immature I was in comparison to now. Why would I want to remember that?

Though you don’t want to dwell in the past or hold onto it, there are times in life when it is helpful, and sometimes even critical, to take a look back, deal with the past issues, learn from the old you, and remember your story so you can encourage and help others.

Sometimes looking at our past with a new perspective can help us to move forward because we can be encouraged by how far we’ve come.

Also, your story can help someone else. Your story of growth is an inspiration. And YOU can help someone who is going through a similar thing that you went through. I’ve already been able to encourage several people by sharing with them where I started from (i.e. who I was before I became more disciplined).

When you’re at the beginning of your journey or in the middle of a struggle, it is hard to see beyond it. Like I discussed in last week’s post, which talked about the lie of “I have to be perfect at this right now,” we see others who seem to be doing great but we forget that they had to start at the beginning too and most likely also faced obstacles along the way. Remember how you felt when you first began. Your story can really encourage someone.

In your journey of growth, which stage are you at?

Stage 1:

Perhaps you’re in denial. Perhaps you chose to move forward without giving yourself any moment to think about what happened. Your past embarrasses you and you do not see the value of looking back, so you tried to move forward. Though maybe you have moved forward some, there is a shadow that haunts you; just a little thought in the back of your mind that reminds you of your past and who you used to be. You think pushing it back is the best way to get rid of it…but it’s not working. Take a look at the 1st column, “LOOK BACK.” I know you’re scared, but there will be healing in time.

Stage 2:

Perhaps you don’t have a problem with looking back; in fact, you’re actually stuck there. Whether you’d like to admit it or not, perhaps you’re reliving your past every day without even trying to grow and move forward. Somehow your past brings comfort to you because you’re afraid of moving forward. Or maybe you simply have a hard time letting your past go. Take a look at the 2nd column, “LET GO.” Reflect on the questions and take the action steps.

Stage 3:

Perhaps you have reflected, let it go, and moved forward, but you do not see value in your story. It’s done. You’ve moved forward. You don’t need to do any more. Well you’re right, you don’t need to do any more. However, your story could be just what someone needs to hear right now. Maybe there’s someone in your life who is going through a similar thing and feeling the way you did and your story could really encourage them and help them out. Do not underestimate the power of your story, no matter how small the growth may have been. There IS value to your story, both for you and for others. Take a look at the 3rd column, “LIVE OUT.” Follow the action steps to knowing, and maybe even telling, your story.

Need some help?

Contact me.

Need some clarification of what I’ve said? Need some help going through one of the stages? Click “contact” in the top main menu for a quick way to send me a message. I would love to help you.

Tell your story through Instagram.

I love Instagram. If you are wanting to share a part of your story to inspire others, Instagram might be a good place to start. It doesn’t have to be long. Just share a before and after picture or some kind of image to represent your story and then write a little blurb about your journey of growth or just one way in which you’ve grown.

I will be sharing a few pieces of my story on Instagram, if you’d like to see or need some ideas of how to share yours. I am @TheReelAnna on Instagram.

Subscribe to my blog.

I will be giving you more resources to get rid of and replace your negative and false thoughts. Subscribing will help you to never miss a post, plus there are bonus materials for subscribers.

Need some more ideas or inspiration?

Check out the category “E.P.I.C. Stories” on my blog to hear personal growth stories from everyday people.

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What stage(s) do you need to go through?

Feel free to share your story here, too. My little community here might be a good place for you to start.