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Recently I had a consultation with a couple. I’ll call them Romeo and Juliett. They make a lovely pair, but were frustrated because they were having problems getting ahead. They came to me for advice on their future and the direction they should take. I took a look at their past to see what would be beneficial to both their health and their wealth. However, during our conversation, they were both extremely focused on the past, and how much better things were way back when. Something inside of me felt they needed more than just guidance about their future. It seemed they needed help letting go of the past.

    I pointed out their strong focus on the past and told them that this could be what was robbing the energy they needed to embark on a better future. Actually, this is a common problem for many people. Hanging onto the past, whether the memories are good or bad, is like walking around with excess baggage. It slows you down and keeps you from working toward your dreams.

    Once I had Romeo and Juliett’s attention, I reminded them that no matter how good or bad the past had been, it was over and there was no going back. Furthermore, the act of continually focusing on the past, even when the memories are positive, is detrimental if it keeps you from fully experiencing the present. Let’s face it, we’re stuck with the present so why waste time worrying about past hurts or mistakes or dwelling on how much better things may have been?

    Before Romeo and Juliett left, I encouraged them to work on letting go of their thoughts and feelings about the past, and see how they could make their present moments even better. By the time they left my office, they had plenty to think about, and I hope that they will take my advice about releasing their past so that they can enjoy their present.

    Friends, many things in life are beyond our control, but we do have control over the choices we make today. By placing our attention on what is in front of us today, we put our energies into making a nicer future.