It's wonderful that you took responsibility for your past behavior and apologized sincerely. Rebuilding a relationship after acknowledging past mistakes can be a positive step forward. However, it's not uncommon for feelings of guilt to linger even after an apology has been accepted.
Here are some suggestions to cope with feelings of guilt:
Recognize and accept your feelings: It's natural to experience guilt after recognizing past mistakes, but remember that you have already taken responsibility for your actions and made amends. It's okay to feel remorseful, but try not to dwell on it excessively.
Learn from the experience: Use this situation as a learning opportunity to grow and become a better person. Reflect on what caused you to act that way in the past, and think about how you can avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
Practice self-compassion: Forgive yourself for your past actions and understand that everyone makes mistakes. Be kind to yourself and remind yourself that you are not defined solely by your past behavior.
Engage in positive actions: Focus on being a positive and supportive influence in your current interactions with others. By being kind and considerate, you can reinforce the changes you've made and continue to build positive relationships.
Talk to someone you trust: If the feelings of guilt persist, consider discussing your emotions with a trusted friend, family member, or even a therapist. Sometimes, talking about our feelings with others can help provide perspective and support.
Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques: When feelings of guilt strike, try grounding yourself in the present moment through mindfulness exercises. Techniques like deep breathing or meditation can help you regain a sense of balance and perspective.
Set realistic expectations: Remember that healing takes time, and it's normal for emotions to fluctuate as you process the past and move forward. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to heal at your own pace.
Redirect your focus: Engage in activities or hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment. By focusing on positive aspects of your life, you can create a more balanced emotional state.
Ultimately, overcoming feelings of guilt is a process, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. The fact that you've taken responsibility for your actions and improved your relationship is a positive sign of growth and maturity. Keep working on being the best version of yourself and practice self-forgiveness along the way.