In episode 118, “Don’t Dwell On The Past”, we discuss practical tips on how to press on through negative past experiences. Training yourself and others to process through emotions and trauma in a healthy way will help you become more mentally tough. We continue our book study mini series over Amy Morin’s 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do. Learn how to take back your power, embrace change, face your fears, and train your brain for happiness and success.
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The Negatives to Dwelling on the Past
First off, let’s establish that there is a difference between thinking about the past and dwelling on the past with shame and guilt. Both bring back memories, but one has negative effects. If you consistently find yourself replaying the past like movie scenes or “If only I would have…”, this toxic dwelling is something that needs to be removed. If you’ve got a negative habit of doing this, stay tuned to hear how you can combat this.
As mentioned before, there can be negative consequences to dwelling on the past:
- More likely to throw self pity parties
- Get stuck in a false reality
- Distracts from the present
- Interferes with decision making skills
- Affects physical and mental health
- Greater risk of heart disease, cancer, & dementia
If those consequences aren’t intense enough for you, or you need a little help getting unstuck, here are some Bible verses that can help:
- Romans 8:1
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Psalm 103:12
There are many more verses that can help you combat staying stuck in the past. We also recommend some of our other mini series that can help with step by step processes. All of these are linked at the bottom.
How to Combat Spiraling Thoughts
Many times it’s easier to extend grace to others, so practice giving yourself grace too. We go over many examples and practical application in this episode, so be sure to scroll up and hit play to hear how this can look in your life. Some tips we give include:
- Give yourself grace
- Learn from mistakes
- Attend counseling
- Journal consistently
- Focus energy on the present
- Practice forgiveness
- Take inventory of your thoughts
Again, we explain all of these in the episodes, and tell you about our favorite gratitude journal available here. Don’t dwell on the past. Take some time to actively shift your thoughts as they begin to spiral. We give you a specific step by step process on how to designate thinking time in this episode, so be sure to take a listen.
More Tips
It’s valuable to actively work through grief so you can focus on present and plan for the future. Remember, unchecked toxic thoughts will manifest somehow, so we must take time to address it. To all those struggling with dwelling on the past, we’re sending prayers your way. We are huge supporters of going to therapy and finding a good Christian counselor. If you need help, be brave and reach out to your local church, us, or even your insurance agency.
We hope you enjoyed “Don’t Dwell On The Past”, and that you have practical, actionable steps you can take. Be sure to check out this entire 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do mini series (13 Things mini series) about a simple & proven way to become more mentally tough. You can do this! We’re here to help. Click the affiliate image below to get your copy of Amy Morin’s book.
Links From the Show
- Witty & Gritty Patreon
- Book: 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do (affiliate)
- One Line A Day Journal (affiliate)
- 21 Kicks Journals
- Stephanie Frentress, Grief (episode 18)
