Have you ever met that guy or girl who is always talking about what he/she did 10, 15 or 20 years ago? Hanging on to all the details of that memory and wishing he or she could go back and make it different? Maybe that person is you. Frequently saying things like, “if only I…” You become so deeply involved in your story that you’d swear it happened yesterday.

That’s the kind of person who is stuck in the past. As a matter of fact, most people have moments in their life they wish they could go back to. Moments of regret when they made a decision they wish could be changed.

I know I’ve been guilty of this at times. Holding on to what ‘could’ve been’ and thinking about it so much that it takes away from the present moment. Looking back at the past should be brief. Nostalgic. What it shouldn’t be is holding you back. Sometimes those decisions made in the past are the best learning lessons for the future, providing a reference point of what not to do next time around. Or what the best thing to do will be. It can also serve as a tool you can use to teach others based on your experience in their life journey.

Sometimes it’s a previous relationship that you’re still clinging to. Hoping that it may work out, even though your gut tells you this isn’t right to hold on to. As long as you keep that alive, you’re not allowing someone else to enter your life for the future.

Is there something in your life that you’re holding onto that could be holding you back? Take a moment to reflect and write down what it may be. How can you address this so that you can be free to move forward?

1. Ask yourself is dwelling on it serving you today?
If the answer is no. Then it’s time to move on. Thinking about it over and over isn’t going to make things better for you right now.

2. Once you recognize what you’re holding onto, let it go.
Some of you may have heard the phrase “Let go and Let God”. It’s quite liberating when you understand that sometimes circumstances are beyond your control. When you allow God to move you in a new direction you will see opportunities filling the space you allowed the past to occupy.

3. Read inspiring and thought-provoking books.

These days gaining access to information is so much easier, with the Internet no matter where in the world you are. Find content that will open your mind to the concept of letting go and how to embrace the present. A few years ago I read this book, Shoulda Coulda Woulda, by Les Parrott. This was a great read offering simple ways to let go of regret. This book is just one example of what’s out there to help you on your journey.

Make today a new day and let go of what’s holding you back from embracing the future that lies ahead.