Each January many individuals choose to declare their “begin again” intentions by making New Year’s resolutions. There’s another “begin again” activity—forgiveness of self and others. You can use it every day rather than waiting for a once-a-year opportunity.

To activate the power of forgiveness in your life, here’s an easy to do, four-step process:

• Find a time when you can be alone or will not be interrupted. If you have to lock yourself in the bathroom with a “Do Not Disturb” sign posted on the door, do so.
  
• Start by focusing on you. Identify one way you are judging, criticizing or blaming yourself, i.e., you may be feeling guilty about something you said or didn’t say, something you did or didn’t do. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an act of commission or omission, if you are feeling unhappy about it; it’s a candidate for forgiveness.
  
• Stand in front of the mirror. Take a deep breath. As you inhale through your nose, push your stomach out. This creates space for your diaphragm to lower so your lungs can expand so there’s more space for you to breath in the life giving substance of oxygen. Exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat.
  
• Now, with tender “soft eyes,” look deeply into your eyes. No judgment, criticism or blame permitted. Once you’ve established loving eye contact, say your name aloud and “I forgive you. You are loved, special and important just the way you are.” Remember to keep breathing.

Note: You may feel a spark in your heart, or tears may well up in your eyes, or you may feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders. It’s your body saying “thank you.”

Forgiveness is a guaranteed “begin again” resource, an antidote for your mistakes. It’s guaranteed to free you from the bondage of hurt feelings, anger, hate and rage by putting the past where it belongs—in the past.

Are you ready to “begin again” and let more laughter into your life? When you practice forgiveness, you will lighten up your mental and emotional workload. Then, you’ll have space to let more laughter into your life. Happy New Year! C’mon, Let’s Laugh!