It's commendable that you recognize the harm caused by your actions and want to work on overcoming your guilt and finding forgiveness. Coping with guilt can be challenging, but with effort and self-reflection, you can start to heal and grow as a person. Here are some steps to help you on this journey:
Acknowledge and take responsibility: Accept that you made mistakes and that your behavior was not acceptable. Avoid rationalizing or justifying your actions. Taking full responsibility is the first step towards change.
Understand the reasons: Reflect on what led you to act in that manner. While this doesn't excuse your behavior, understanding the underlying emotions or triggers can help you address them and avoid similar situations in the future.
Apologize and make amends: If possible and appropriate, apologize to your ex-partner for your actions. A sincere apology can show that you are genuinely remorseful and willing to change.
Seek professional help: Consider talking to a therapist or counselor about your feelings and actions. A professional can help you navigate your emotions, address underlying issues, and provide guidance on coping with guilt.
Practice self-compassion: It's essential to forgive yourself for your past mistakes. Remember that everyone makes errors, but the key is to learn from them and grow. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding as you would a friend who was going through a difficult time.
Learn from the experience: Use this as an opportunity for personal growth. Take the lessons from this experience to become a better, more empathetic person. Commit to working on healthier ways of dealing with emotions and conflict.
Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Find positive outlets for your emotions, such as engaging in physical activities, pursuing hobbies, or talking to friends or loved ones about your feelings.
Surround yourself with support: Seek support from understanding friends or family members who can provide a listening ear and encouragement. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in your healing process.
Set boundaries: If you are in contact with your ex-partner, establish healthy boundaries to avoid repeating harmful patterns. Respect their feelings and decisions, even if you don't agree with them.
Be patient with yourself: Healing takes time, and forgiveness is a process. Be patient with yourself as you work through your emotions and strive to become a better person.
Remember that making positive changes and seeking forgiveness is an ongoing journey. Embrace the opportunity for growth and commit to being a more compassionate and respectful individual in all aspects of your life.