I use seven science-backed happiness hacks to change mindsets and encourage a resilience tipping toward joy. I'll let you in on a secret- one of the seven seems to have more power than all the others. It's forgiveness.

Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured. Mark Twain

When we hold on we impact our own health at a cellular level. The production of hormones is thrown off and the ability to fight infection drops. People with higher self-esteem find it easier to forgive. And this isn't just about anger. Many people choose sadness over anger but guess what- sadness is just anger with less intensity.Have you ever had a relationship where the break up lasted longer than the time you spent together? Do you still have a nemesis from your childhood? Do you stop trusting people easily? If you answer yes to any of these, you may need to strengthen your forgiveness muscle![button link="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/quizzes/take_quiz/forgiveness"] Take the forgiveness quiz.[/button]A few things to remember that can help you as you get better at forgiving.

1. Forgiving does not mean you condone the action
2. You don't have to forget when you forgive.
3. You don't need to relate to the person you forgive.
4. When you forgive you give up all hope of a better past.
5. When you let go of the past you are free to open up to a new future.

Deep healing occurs with time. Or it can happen overnight. There isn't a way that is better. Whatever works for you works for you!