Moving Forward with Healing, Humour, and Self-Compassion

Finding Your Way Through Tough Times

We all face moments that make us stop in our tracks. Life can feel heavy, confusing, even unfair. Some days it seems as if the past has the final word.

And yet, the life ahead of you matters more than the life behind you.

Moving forward isn’t so much about ignoring what has happened, but about choosing not to let yesterday decide the rest of your story.

Why It Matters

When pain sticks with us, it can really mess with our heads. We start to feel like we're never safe, like we can't trust anyone, or that good things just aren't in the cards for us.

These thoughts can take root and shape how we live each day. Recognising this is important because it shows that the story is not finished.

Healing and growth are possible, beginning with small, mindful choices that support the life you wish to build.

Healing in Connection

Not long ago, I was chatting with a close friend. I had been feeling low, and we were talking it through, like a debrief. At one point, my friend laughed and said, “Heck, you’re the psychotherapist, you know what to do!”

They were right in a way, but the moment reminded me of something important: Even when we have the knowledge, it can still be hard to put into practice alone.

What makes the difference is connection. When someone is there to listen, encourage, or even make us laugh, the weight feels lighter and the path ahead becomes more clear.

The Role of Self-Compassion

A key part of moving forward is how we treat ourselves.

Self-compassion is not indulgence. It is the choice to meet our struggles with patience rather than criticism. Too often we extend kindness to others, but deny it to ourselves. Learning to pause and offer the same care inward can soften anxiety and create room for healing.

You don’t need to control every thought. You simply need to stop letting those thoughts take control of you.

Words and Focus Shape the Journey

The language we use about ourselves carries power.

If we repeat “I am tired” or “I will never change,” those words begin to frame our reality. But when we start speaking gratitude and hope, the shift is noticeable. Where focus goes, energy flows. By talking more about blessings than burdens, we create space for growth.

This is not about ignoring difficulties but choosing where to invest our attention so that life feels more balanced.

Humour as Resilience

There is value in humour.

As John Cleese said, “Humour is an anaesthetic that dulls life’s sharp edges.” A good laugh does not erase struggle, but it helps us stand taller against it.

Humour lightens the load and reminds us that even during hard times, joy still belongs in the picture.

Moving Forward with Trust

Moving forward is rarely a straight line.

There will be steps back and steps forward, moments of doubt and moments of clarity. But each time we choose compassion, refocus our words, or find humour in the absurd, we reclaim a little more freedom from the past.

Trust that the journey is unfolding. Doors are opening, opportunities are aligning, and there are seats waiting for you in places you cannot yet imagine.

The future is not just possible; it is already reaching out to meet you.

I’m Stefan Jürgens, RP (Qualifying), founder of Inner Counsel Psychotherapy. I help adults move from struggle toward greater ease by turning their inner critic into an ally. When you’re ready, a free 20-minute consultation awaits.

Photo: Madison Inouye via Pexels

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