Resentment is like taking poison and expecting the other person to die. Resentment has reared it’s ugly head a couple of times during my trail runs so I figured I better take heed. Recently I was ruminating about a couple of people who I felt had wronged me and I stumbled. “Why is this happening when I'm thinking about these people”, I thought. What I realized is that I was angry because they did not act in the way I expected them to. These people don't know that I'm harboring this anger, this resentment towards them. I’m only harming myself.
The insight: I’m stumbling on thoughts in my head that keep me away from feeling gratitude and happiness.
I need to let go of the resentment and anger, and forgive them to free up space within myself for better things.
What shouldn't you do regarding resentment?
Do not avoid it
Do not pretend it doesn't exist
Do not try to forget it
What should you about resentment?
Face it
Acknowledge it
Deal with it
Find a way to to let it go
Ways to let go of resentment.
Take 100% responsibility for you response to the perceived wrong
Practice empathy. Play the understanding game and put yourself in the other persons shoes
Talk to someone about it
Journal
Resentment can provide great lessons for personal growth. When it comes up in the future don't hang on to resentment for too long because it’s detrimental to your physical, mental and emotional health. Just let it go and free up space for more joy, gratitude and appreciation. Your life will be happier because of it.
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