Forgiveness can be incredibly difficult. Some of us have misconceptions about what forgiveness really means—and may deliberately avoid it. Others may want to forgive, but wonder whether or not they truly can. Forgiveness does not always come easy; but it is possible if you are willing to put in the effort.

Keys to forgiveness include:

1. Know what forgiveness is and why it matters -Forgiveness is about goodness, about extending mercy to those who’ve harmed us, even if they don’t “deserve” it
2. Become “forgivingly fit” -Sometimes pride and power can weaken your efforts to forgive by making you feel entitled and inflated
3. Address your inner pain. You may be able to do this accounting on your own, or you may need the help of a therapist.
4. Develop a forgiving mind through empathy. Recognizing that we all carry wounds in our hearts can help open the door to forgiveness.
5. Find meaning in your suffering. To find meaning is not to diminish your pain or to say, I’ll just make the best of it or All things happen for a reason.
6. Forgive yourself. In self-forgiveness, you honor yourself as a person, even if you are imperfect.
7. Develop a forgiving heart. When we overcome suffering, we gain a more mature understanding of what it means to be humble, courageous, and loving.

Courage Starter

After listening to this podcast, do you struggle with forgiveness? How can you implement the above tips? Reach out to us on social media or via our website www.ISWCPodcast.com and submit your stories of courage.

Topics

• What is forgiveness
• What makes forgiveness difficult

Relevant Links

Submit your story here https://iswcpodcast.com/blog Keys to forgiveness: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/eight_keys_to_forgiveness

Catherine Takawira (@insecure_fitness) Jen Burns (@jen.burnsrealtor)