In our last post, we explored how the past has a way of creeping into our present, often stealing our ability to fully enjoy the moment. We also discussed how this isn’t your fault—it’s deeply rooted in how our brains evolved. The lingering thoughts of the past can feel like a relentless "demon" in our minds, one that tortures us with memories we’d rather leave behind. If you missed that discussion, you can check it out here.
Today, let’s dive into how to handle this demon so it no longer holds power over you. If left unchecked, these unresolved feelings can lead to emotions like regret, anger, or sadness—none of which help us live peacefully in the present. In fact, they can make us feel trapped in a loop of negativity.
Interestingly, we’ll be adapting a method from another previous post where we talked about dealing with fears of the future (read that post here). While that approach involved writing down fears and tearing up the pages to symbolize letting go, addressing the past requires a slightly different approach. Instead of discarding what you’ve written, you’ll hold onto it. Here’s why: fears about the future are often imagined scenarios that haven’t happened yet, so tearing them up helps dismiss their power. But the past is real—it happened—and acknowledging it is the first step toward reconciliation.
Here’s how you can start:
- Grab a notebook and pen—the physical act of writing helps connect your thoughts to paper.
- Write three pages each night—do this before bed when your mind is quieter.
- Describe the event—recount what happened in as much detail as possible.
- Reflect on your feelings—write about how you felt at the time and how you feel now. Don’t focus on changing those feelings; just let them flow.
- Don’t worry about perfection—this isn’t about grammar or structure; it’s about honesty.
- Close the notebook and rest—once you’re done writing, put it away and allow yourself to sleep.
This practice helps slow down your thoughts and gives you clarity over time. By putting your memories into words, they become less overwhelming and more tangible, allowing your mind to naturally begin processing and reconciling with them.
Try this for a week and see how you feel. Over time, this process can help you find peace with your past, whether through forgiving yourself or others, taking action to resolve lingering issues, or simply letting go of what no longer serves you. You might be surprised at how much lighter and more present you feel.
If this resonates with you or if you'd like to revisit related topics, take a look at our earlier posts on overcoming fear (here). Let’s keep moving forward together!