One of the most powerful actions we can take as human beings is forgiving. As a child, I struggled with forgiving others who offended me. However, as I grew older, I learned the power and benefits of forgiveness.
Why is forgiveness so powerful? Because it is vitally important to our mental and physical health. Although research has proven forgiveness is beneficial to our health, it is also one of the most challenging actions we can take.
So, if forgiveness is beneficial to our health and mental wellbeing, why do we struggle with the act of forgiveness?
When we are hurt or offended by someone else, or events, the hurt we feel can develop into resentment. Over time, long-held grievances and unresolved conflicts may affect our mental and physical health.
Research on the effect of unforgiveness indicates it can increase cholesterol levels, blood pressure, anxiety, depression, stress, and the risk of heart attacks. Also, when we harbor unforgiveness, we can develop unhealthy anger and adversely impact our relationships.
While forgiveness can be difficult, we can learn to forgive. It starts with choosing to forgive. That’s right; forgiveness is a choice.
When we choose to forgive, we can begin the healing process.
John Maxwell reminded us of the benefits of forgiveness when he said,
“forgiveness is medicine for the soul – medicine we all need if we want to live life to the full.”
– John Maxwell
What are some of the benefits of forgiveness?
- Improved mental and physical health
- Peace from letting go of anger and pain
- Greater clarity on how we see others and ourself
- See the good in others
- Ability to ask forgiveness from others
- Freedom to move forward
When we choose forgiveness, we set ourselves free. Lewis B. Smedes said, To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
Every day people make mistakes, and as a leader, we have a choice. We can model forgiveness and extend grace, or we can hold on to the emotional baggage of anger and hurt.
Are you changing your world by forgiving others?
#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim
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