“The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.” ― Steve Maraboli2014 has been a challenging and painful year for a lot of people, myself included. Sometimes, the burdens and responsibilities of life can feel like it's too much to bear. Whether you've been experiencing emotional pain or heartbreak, it's time to remember that forgiving yourself is of utmost importance. Now, I'm no professional but I know a thing or two about how to heal after hurtful situations. The power to forgive is within us and for us. If forgiveness is something that you struggle with, here's a practical guide to forgiving yourself.

WRITE A LETTER.

Writing has been known to be a very therapeutic exercise. Write everything you feel and then burn it. Acknowledge that those thoughts no longer control you and that you will do whatever it takes to move on. Make a pact with yourself.

MEDITATION AND DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES.

I cannot stress how much this has helped me with my anxiety. Meditation practices are quite helpful when done correctly. Breathe in deeply from your mouth, expanding your stomach. Exhale deeply from your mouth, pushing everything out. You should feel like a deflated balloon. Repeat this until you feel relaxed. Empty your mind and let go.

LAUGH.

It's good for your heart and keeps you in a good mood. It reminds you not to take yourself too seriously.

TAKE A PICTURE.

There's a shift happening with social media. It seems that everyone has migrated back to Facebook, leaving Twitter behind. People desire more personal relationships. They want to see their family and friends doing well. So take pictures of yourself and post them! Don't disappear. Show people your joy and let them rejoice with you. You have no idea how many people would love to congratulate you and revel in your successes.

WRITE IT DOWN.

Sharing for the world to see can be a daunting task if you're not an open person. If you're not comfortable writing on social media about what your pains, write it in your journal. Don't keep it bottled inside.

GET OUT.

Meet new people. Join a meetup group. Hang out with your friends, colleagues or classmates. Share experiences. We cannot live without human interaction.

AFFIRM YOURSELF.

Before leaving your home, look in the mirror everyday and say something kind about yourself. We have enough critics in the world. The least you can do is be your own cheerleader.

SPIRITUAL HEALING.

Listen to uplifting music. I swear sometimes that's enough therapy for me sometimes. If you have to cry out to whoever you believe in, your higher power, do it and then make a change.

SEEK A THERAPIST.

Now more than ever, we see in the media how the lack of mental care breaks down the strongest of individuals. Mental health is something that must be maintained often. If it is not a financial option right now, keep it in mind for the future. Mental health must not be overlooked.

STAY POSITIVE.

Be open to the good to come in your future. The law of attraction is real. Believe whatever you want is yours and it will be.