Why Forgiving Yourself is Essential

Mar 15, 2025

 

Treat Yourself with Kindness & Compassion

If a friend came to you feeling regretful, would you shame them? Would you constantly remind them of what they did wrong? Probably not.

You’d offer understanding. You’d remind them they’re human. You’d encourage them to grow from it.

So why is it so hard to do that for ourselves?

Self-forgiveness starts with acknowledging your actions without self-punishment. It means recognizing where you could have done better, while also holding space for the fact that you’re always learning and evolving.

Learn from the Experience

Regret isn’t just something to “let go of”—it’s an opportunity for growth.

Instead of dwelling on the past, ask yourself:

  • What is this regret trying to teach me?
  • What can I take from this experience so I don’t repeat it?
  • How can I use this lesson to make better choices in the future?

This shifts your mindset from self-judgment to self-expansion.

Commit to Doing Better

True forgiveness comes when you allow yourself to move forward with intention. Not to forget the past, but to use it as fuel for wiser choices, deeper self-trust, and a life that aligns with who you are now.

If you find yourself struggling with self-forgiveness, try these steps:

Acknowledge your emotions – Regret, guilt, sadness—they all deserve to be recognized.

Take responsibility, but don’t self-punish – Owning your actions is powerful, but shame will keep you stuck.

Apologize if needed (even to yourself) – Sometimes making amends includes showing yourself grace.

Reframe the mistake as a lesson – Instead of asking, “Why did I do that?” ask “What did this teach me?”

Take action toward growth – Shift your focus to the choices you have now instead of what you wish you had done differently.

Forgiveness is the Path to Freedom

Forgiving yourself doesn’t mean you’re ignoring what happened. It means you’re choosing to not let it define you.

It’s a choice to move forward with clarity, confidence, and self-compassion.

What’s one regret you’ve been holding on to?

How can you reframe it as a lesson instead of a life sentence?

Ready to Reframe & Reimagine? Join Us Tomorrow!

If this resonates with you, then you’ll love Day 2 of Reimagining Midlife, where we dive deep into reframing regret so it no longer holds you back.

Reimagining Midlife starts TOMORROW, March 17th!

If you’ve had your eye on this challenge, it’s not too late to join! This is your chance to:

-Shift limiting beliefs

-Reframe your story

-Step into the next chapter of your life with confidence

Join the challenge now! http://www.susanlazarhart.com/midlifechallenge

Wishing you a Sunday filled with grace, growth, and a little more forgiveness.

With love,

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