No one is perfect. We’re only human, which means that we are well-versed in being wronged and making mistakes ourselves.

In some cases, dwelling on past instances of hurt seems easier than mustering up the courage to forgive and move forward. However, the practice of forgiveness is necessary if we want to maintain our mental health and live happy, fulfilling lives.

The importance of forgiveness

Whether or not you choose to maintain contact with a person who has wronged you, refusing forgiveness is a sure way toward ongoing mental stress and exhaustion. Harboring negative feelings will only bring you down!

Instead of allowing this to happen, work steadily toward genuine forgiveness. On the way, you’ll find relief, energy, freedom, and contentment.

Forgiveness in practice

We’ve determined that forgiveness is the key to a happier, healthier outlook, but the act of forgiving someone is often easier said than done. If you’re having trouble learning how to genuinely forgive, particularly how to forgive someone who isn’t sorry, consider the following:

Find a Life Coach

You can find a Life Coach on WikiExpert and schedule life coaching sessions. It's is an excellent first step to explore as you begin your journey of forgiveness. These certified professionals will work with you individually to identify your goals—in this case, the act of forgiving, moving on, and releasing a grudge—while also helping you to identify and tackle any obstacles that may hinder your progress.

Shift your focus

Forgiveness is often misunderstood as an act performed for the sake of another person, but the point of forgiveness is actually to benefit yourself!

By shifting focus from others and concentrating on yourself, you encourage the kinds of self-discovery and reflection that will make you a better person. Instead of resenting the actions of another party, modify your perception of forgiveness as an act of self-improvement.

Live in the present moment

There’s a reason that focusing on the present instead of the past is a core tenant of mindfulness meditation! Living in the past won’t help you, but existing wholly in the “now” is one of the best ways to lean toward forgiveness.

Be free of judgment

The anger and resentment which often prevent us from practicing forgiveness are due to internal judgments about the character and motivations of another individual. While it is valid to feel hurt if you’ve been wronged, withhold your judgmental thoughts. Forgiveness will be much easier without them.

Learning how to forgive someone can be difficult. If you’re ready to take the plunge and travel the path of forgiveness.