Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Phillipians 3:12-14

bounce

A big secret of creating a compelling future is knowing when to leave the past in the past. Too many people find themselves caught up in replaying past problems, getting caught up in old issues and otherwise sabotaging their chances of achieving their big dreams.

Don’t be one of those people. These tips will certainly help. 

Accept Your Past and Be Thankful Where you Can.

There’s a certain magical force in the power of absolute gratitude. This means taking a look at your past both good and bad and be thankful for it. Remember even the worse things you have experienced have contributed to the person you are today. When you accept it all and are thankful for it ties are cut and it all loses power over you.

Break With Negative People.

Some old influences are hardly good ones. Sometimes this is hard to accept, but once you do often the best move you can make is break with them. This doesn’t have to be explosive and dramatic. Slowly distancing yourself until you are clear from them can often be the best stress free alternative. This opens up space in your life for interesting new people to take their place.

Focus on the Present and Future.

Energy follows attention. The more you think about the “Now” (believe me there’s plenty of books on that subject should you need one) or plan for the future, the less energy you will be sending into past mistakes and issues. This is wise since the past can’t be changed can it? 

Work on Yourself.

ne of the best ways to leave the past behind is to work hard on building a better you in the present. Nothing inspires hope like going to the gym and seeing yourself become more strong and fit, returning to school to pursue a dream or to throw lots of effort into a new hobby you always wanted to explore.

By making today’s YOU an improvement over yesterday’s YOU the temptation to look backwards will be replaced with strong hope for the future!

Take More Risks.

One sure way to break yourself from the habit of looking backward is to challenge yourself to take more chances NOW. There’s something about risk taking (safe risk taking of course) which brings one into the present, quickly and efficiently. Do it enough and the past doesn’t seem anywhere near as fascinating any more. Try it.