Past memories holding you up?

Ah, our past.  If it were not for our memory, the past wouldn't exist....right?  The older we grow, the more memories we have of the good, bad and the ugly.  I've had the pleasure of more good than ugly, but then again, I intentionally forget what I wish not to remember.  How convenient you might be thinking...  Yes, it's a practice I use to let-go of any anchor memories that might be slowing down my ship.

Our minds do an amazing job at seeking out what we focus our attention on.  The tricky part about this process is that words of negation are excluded from the "search engine" that is our minds.  That is to say, if you think silently and consistently  don't worry about stress, don't worry about stress, don't ...The mind processes "worry about stress".  The "don't" is a negating word that the mind doesn't use.  So, in this example our mind will seek out reasons to worry about stress.

Thinking of a past memory (remembering) and projecting a future event (visualizing) are exactly the same to the mind.  As far as the mind is concerned, if you're dreaming of something you wish to happen, it processes these images the same as though they already happened.  The more you bring them to the forefront of your awareness, the more priority they receive.

So how can all this help deal with past issues?

Understanding the important properties of how the mind functions are key to letting go of haunting past issues, and creating wonderful new experiences.

Let's use an example of a past public speaking event that went horrifically wrong.  While you were at the microphone  your mouth dried up and you began to sweat profusely.  The nerves got so bad, that half way through your presentation you walked away from the podium crying.  (can you see this happening?)  You now are so fearful of talking to large groups of people, that you passed on a great career opportunity.  This could apply to any number of things that happened in the past, and as a result, keep you from your desires.  Every time you think of your fear, replace the image in the mind with a scenario that worked perfectly.  So in this case,  see the mic as your assistant helping you get your important message out.  The words are flowing effortlessly as you hit your stride broadcasting with confidence.  Everything simply feels right.  Your walking off stage with pride from a well delivered speech.

Doesn't that sound a whole lot better?  I didn't really happen that way, but who cares.  It's the feelings associated with that event/person/place that your looking to alter.  At first it may seem like a stretch to change history by simply replacing it with something better.  Your only looking to knock off the sharp edges at the beginning.   Take your time and build upon your new vision by tracking your progress.  Baby steps is key to any overwhelming challenge, along with consistency.  Set up a journal or note pad and celebrate any feelings of progress.  Your taking control and it feels great.

In addition to changing how the memory resonates with our feelings, it is essential to make peace with the problem.  Think of the words surrendering, accepting and allowing as letting go of a rope tied to an anchor.  Do this in your mind.  Very quickly you see the tail end of that rope fade off into the distance along with what ever was holding you back.  You'll know when you've really done this right by letting out a huge sigh of relief.  Do it daily as needed.

Replacing fears and ugly situations with desires of how you wished them to be, will in time, allow you to overcome the past and realize your dreams!

Visit my blog at www.ThinkingEasy.com

Thank You

~Dan