Rearview Mirror (Photo credit: no-vicente)
So many times I hear people say how important it is to look forward. Keep your eyes on the focus ahead. Never look back.
Why? Because if you do (look backward), it’s possible to become stuck on what is already behind that can’t be changed instead of focusing on what’s head that we can change.
I agree with that to a point. But I also disagree. At times looking back can be a healthy pit stop to make because it can help propel people forward by serving as a reminder to the obstacles and challenges they have successfully overcome. This act on it’s own can be a useful tool for motivation if used properly.
Dwelling on the past indefinitely and constantly can keep you stuck there. It sometimes happens because people are more comfortable with what’s already happened, because it is familiar. They would rather stay in familiar territory, because they dread what’s ahead, because it is an unknown. So, they prefer to stay where the surroundings, experiences, and feelings are familiar even though there may be pain, heartache, discomfort, or fear. They know those things well, and though they don’t like them, they do choose to stay there instead of venturing out. That is not an easy place to be. But that’s not the type of looking back that I’m speaking of today.
When is looking back ever helpful?
When you’re stuck in the present or need reassurance, looking back can be just the thing you need to help propel you forward. You don’t look back to stay there. You look back to sometimes look at where you were in your life history. Sometimes it is helpful to look back to see how far you’ve come, so you can get a good grasp on the progress you’ve made. It’s also a good reminder when you can look back on the things you’ve learned from those places you’ve been.
Looking back quickly gives you a glimpse of:
- Where you’ve been.
- What you encountered.
- The obstacles you’ve overcome.
- The lessons you’ve learned.
- And how you persevered.
When you look back in these instances, you are certain to find the motivation you need to move forward and continue on your journey. You can use your past experiences and influences as a tool to help propel yourself forward, get you back on track, and motivate yourself. Especially when you should consider that it can be a brief pit stop that is to your benefit. And then you can continue on in your journey.
I'm a life management coach, author, trainer, and part-time preacher who is passionate about life!
