My schedule has been packed lately. And by lately I mean this whole year. Every month has been busier than the previous one. My plate is full right now. In saying all that I often find myself energized even when I’m tired.  A big reason for this is that I love what I do, which I wrote about last week.

However, there are some things in my life that really drain my energy. One thing in particular that really wears me out is holding grudges against people. In a previous blog I talked about how I have screwed up some of my relationships. One of the reasons I mentioned was lack of forgiveness, which really is holding onto grudges.

One thing I know for certain is that forgiveness can change your life. Whether you are forgiving someone or asking for their forgiveness, there is a real power to it. It can really energize you. Think about how much of your energy you drain talking about people who have disappointed you or hurt you? Or people who you have hurt? Is it worth it?

Have you ever had a positive outcome from holding a grudge? From not forgiving someone? I know I haven’t. I have had positive outcomes from forgiveness. Even with those positive outcomes, I still find myself spending more and more time holding on to things, not letting go and allowing a negative experience with someone to dominate my energy.

Today I am challenging myself to actually practice forgiveness. I want to get away from things that drain my energy so I no longer hold grudges, because nothing good is coming from them.

I will now strive to offer my forgiveness even to those who don’t see they need it.

I will no longer be consumed by unproductive thoughts.

I will forgive those who criticize me unjustly.

I will forgive myself. By forgiving myself, I erase the doubts, fears, and frustrations that have kept my past in the present.

I challenge you to practice forgiveness with me. Stop holding on to grudges and finally let it go. Whoever in your life you need to forgive, decide today to take action and forgive them.

Maybe there is someone who you have wronged, I challenge you to ask them for their forgiveness. You will feel better. It doesn’t even matter if they accept the apology or grant you forgiveness. That is on them. Focus on what you can control and that is only YOU.

Forgiveness can and will change your life. And it can change the lives of so many other people. But it starts with you. Take responsibility today to move on, to let go, to forgive and get back some much needed energy.

And remember this simple, but powerful thought: Life gets better when we accept an apology that we’ve never received.