How to Bury The Hatchet

Still holding that grudge?? I know kids who have disowned parents; college roomates who will cross the street to avoid each other; family members who haven't spoken in decades. Is this you??

Instructions

1. Freeing yourself from past grudges isn't easy, but lucky for you, your internet "cry on my shoulder person" is available for consultation. Start with these steps:
   1. Identify your targets: run through your "contact list" to determine who and what needs to be flushed down the toilet. Some people have one particular person - others legions. Be willing to start somewhere.

2. Rank grudges in order of the pain they've caused you: Some hurts are minor. Others are like a dagger through the heart. Start by releasing the easiest which will perfect your skills for the bigger ones.
   Quiet your thoughts: Be calm, relax and recall the person who has offended you. Think about what they did; contemplate, then tell yourself,"I'm not going to feel bad about this person any more."

3. Change your behavior: Make a move toward healing by sending them a nice card; smile at the office worker you were hostile to. Your smallest efforts may break-the-ice.
   Unanswered efforts: You may be releasing your grudges but remember, you have no control over what the other person does. Forget yours and be done with the angst, and let the recipient do as he or she pleases.

4. Devise a plan for current situations: be it an adult child; a stepbrother or other person, take charge of the situation and you'll stop playing the role of a "victim." Be a "victor" instead and dump all that unwanted, worn-out baggage you've been hauling around for years.

Tips & Warnings

• Release past disagreements and you'll be able to free yourself from unwanted and uncomfortable situations.