When it comes to moving on after a difficult experience, there are many misconceptions that can hinder the healing process.

Whether it’s a breakup, loss, or any other form of adversity, society often perpetuates certain myths about moving on that can make it even more challenging. Let’s debunk these myths and uncover the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Time heals all wounds

One of the most common sayings regarding moving on is that time heals all wounds. While time is indeed a crucial element in the healing process, it is not the sole factor. The passage of time alone does not guarantee healing.

It is the actions and efforts taken during that time that promote true healing.

Investing time in self-reflection, seeking support, and engaging in self-care activities are essential steps towards healing and moving on. Therefore, instead of solely relying on time, it is important to actively work towards healing.

Myth 2: Moving on means forgetting

Another myth surrounding moving on is the belief that it requires completely forgetting about the past. However, moving on does not mean erasing memories or denying the significance of what happened.

It’s about accepting the past, learning from it, and finding a way to move forward despite it.

The memories and experiences we carry shape who we are, and acknowledging them is a vital part of the healing process. Moving on involves integrating these experiences into our lives and using them as lessons for personal growth.

Myth 3: Closure is necessary

Many people believe that closure is crucial for moving on. However, closure is not always possible or necessary for healing.

Waiting for closure from others, whether it’s an apology or an explanation, can prolong the healing process and keep us stuck in the past.

Real closure comes from within ourselves. It is about accepting what happened, making peace with it, and focusing on our own growth and happiness. We have the power to create our closure by reframing the narrative and finding our own sense of resolution.

Myth 4: Moving on means finding someone new

A prevalent myth about moving on is that it requires finding a new romantic partner. Society often paints the picture of moving on as replacing the old love with a new one. However, this approach can do more harm than good.

Moving on is an individual journey that does not necessarily involve finding someone new. It’s about finding happiness and fulfillment within ourselves first.

Jumping into a new relationship too soon can prevent us from fully healing and learning from past experiences.

Myth 5: Strong people move on quickly

There is a misconception that strong individuals should move on quickly and effortlessly. However, everyone heals at their own pace, and there is no right or wrong timeline for moving on.

Suppressing emotions or rushing the healing process can lead to unresolved issues resurfacing later on.

Moving on is a deeply personal process, and it’s important to honor our own emotions and take the time needed to heal properly.

Strength is not defined by how quickly one moves on but by how resilient they are in facing their emotions and working through them.

Related Article Breaking Up: The Excuses We Make

Myth 6: Moving on is a linear process

Many people believe that moving on is a linear process, where you gradually distance yourself from the past until it no longer affects you. However, the journey of moving on is rarely so straightforward.

It often involves ups and downs, setbacks, and moments of relapse.

Healing is not a perfectly linear path but a rollercoaster ride. It’s essential to be patient and understanding with ourselves during the process, embracing the progress we make while accepting setbacks as normal.

Every step, no matter how small, counts towards moving forward.

Myth 7: Moving on requires cutting all ties

It is commonly believed that in order to move on, we must completely eliminate all ties to the past.

While boundaries and distance can be helpful in certain situations, moving on does not always mean cutting off all contact with the people or places connected to the experience.

Sometimes, holding on to certain connections can be a part of the healing process. It’s about finding a balance that allows for healing and growth without completely severing all ties.

Each situation is unique, and the decision of maintaining connections should be based on individual needs and circumstances.

Myth 8: Moving on means never feeling pain again

Moving on does not equate to never experiencing pain again. Pain is a natural part of the healing process, and it can resurface even after significant progress has been made.

It’s important to remember that healing is not about avoiding pain but learning how to navigate it.

Healing involves developing healthy coping mechanisms, seeking support when needed, and accepting that pain is a temporary part of the journey. By acknowledging and facing our pain, we become stronger and more equipped to handle future challenges.

Myth 9: Moving on is a destination

Contrary to popular belief, moving on is not a destination that we eventually arrive at. It’s an ongoing journey that continues throughout our lives. Healing and growth are lifelong processes that require constant self-reflection and adjustment.

Instead of striving for an endpoint, it’s important to embrace the process itself. Moving on is not about reaching a final destination but rather about the continuous evolution and development of ourselves.

Myth 10: Moving on means being completely healed

Lastly, the myth that moving on means being completely healed can be misleading. Healing is not a destination where we suddenly become entirely free from the pain or hardships we experienced.

It’s an ongoing process that may involve occasional reminders or triggers.

Moving on means learning how to live a fulfilling life despite our past. It does not require reaching a state of ultimate perfection or completely erasing the scars left behind.

It’s about embracing our scars and using them as a reminder of our strength and resilience.