Glenford Smith, Contributor

Be free from your past. - Contributed

How far do you think you could drive while looking through the rear-view mirror? Not very far before you crash, I assure you. And yet this is unfortunately how many persons live their lives, trying to create a successful future while remaining captives to their past.

This is a most understandable and natural reaction to painful experiences. Think of the extreme psychological and physical wounds inflicted on countless children, men and women by others. Sexual and physical abuse. Discrimi-nation. Injustice. Think also of the hurt many persons have caused themselves through bad choices, indiscipline, ignorance and personal weaknesses.

These experiences can so scar persons that their very lives are controlled and shaped by the memories of their past. They cannot trust others in a new relationship. Many vow never to try to start another business. Some believe they are no good, others that they can't succeed. For some persons, the power of their past is so strong that they just can't live with their memories and chose rather, to end their lives.

Life can be miserable for persons who can't seem to make peace with their painful past. Someone said to me recently: "I wish there was some way I could just totally forget some of my past, not remember some things. I just can't seem to get over some things, no matter how hard I try."

If you feel trapped and imprisoned by your past, consider these proven strategies for regaining your freedom.

Seek professional help. Some experiences are so deeply affective that you can't overcome them by yourself. You'll be able to work through and express your hurt and anger and move on to forgiveness, love and hope for the future.

Focus on your positive past. Some negative past experiences can be so hurtful that they disproportionately colour your impressions of your past. Look for and acknowledge the positive memories and blessings of your past. Remember that you attract more of what you focus on into your life.

Benefit from the wisdom of the Prayer of Serenity:

"Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference."

Colin Powell once said: "None of us can change our yesterdays, but all of us can change our tomorrows." This is possible only when we drive the vehicles of our lives looking ahead through the windshield of our imagination rather than the rear-view mirror of our past.

Glenford Smith is a peak performance and self-esteem coach. Email him at glenfordsmith@yahoo.com.