Why You Should Be the First Person You Forgive In RecoveryWhat is forgiveness? Forgiveness usually involves two people, but sometimes, it is yourself that you need to forgive. PsychCentral defines forgiveness as the letting go of feelings for revenge and the release of negative feelings of bitterness and resentment. An article by WebMd points out that physical and mental health might depend on your ability to forgive others and yourself. We are usually our own worst critics, and usually perceive ourselves as the one at fault. During recovery, it is important to learn how to let go of anger towards yourself. This can potentially increase health, maintain healthy relationships, and perhaps prevent disease.

How to Forgive

Forgiving anyone – be it yourself or others – can be a difficult process. Many people carry around anger and resentment because it is easier than letting it go. And sometimes, human beings try to forgive themselves for something that does not need forgiveness. During recovery, we might be angry and see ourselves as weak for allowing an addiction to take control of our lives. Here are some steps towards freeing ourselves from the exhausting weight of negative emotions:

  • Acknowledge your pain and resentment
  • Express your emotions in writing
  • Exchange anger with compassion
  • Realize the difference between anger and hate towards yourself

Why is forgiving yourself during recovery so important?

Why is it easier to wallow in our self-pity, anger, and hate than to let it go and move past the mistakes we have made? Opening ourselves up without the resentment as a barrier is risky. We leave ourselves vulnerable to expectations, and there is extra pressure when we prove that we are human beings, and fallible to very human mistakes. However, it is important to remember that not every mistake is created equal. What is forgiveness but a way to free you from the heavy constant weight of pain and anger?