Your worst days don’t define you. Yes, you’ve gone through tough times. No, you haven’t always responded in the best possible way. However, you should never let your past define you. You should never let your mistakes make you feel like a horrible, irredeemable person. You can always set things right. Maybe not with another person, but within yourself.

When you notice things about yourself that you would like to change, it might feel uncomfortable, but this is actually a positive thing. It means you’re self-reflecting. It means you’re aware of the areas where growth needs to happen. It means you’ve taken the first step on your journey to better yourself.

You’re not always going to get it right. Sometimes, you’re going to say the wrong thing or let your anger get the best of you or fall into old, destructive patterns. Sometimes, you’re going to take one step forward and two steps backward. But that’s okay, as long as you don’t lose hope in yourself. As long as you continue to put in effort every single day.

You can’t spend the rest of your life hating yourself over something you’re unable to go back and change. You’re allowed to wish you handled things differently, but instead of making yourself sick by replaying the past, work toward doing better in the future. Promise yourself that you’ll hold yourself to a higher standard moving forward.

Remember, your worst days don’t define you. Your meltdowns and mistakes are only a small part of your past. There are beautiful moments, too. Moments when you were kind and thoughtful and courageous. Don’t forget about all the good in your heart. Remember that you have the capacity to spread love and kindness. You can make positive changes. You’re not destined to ruin everything you touch, despite what your doubts tell you.

Remember, your worst days don’t define you. Even though there are times when you feel lost and alone, that doesn’t mean you’re always going to feel lost and alone. Even though there were times when you made a mistake, that doesn’t mean you’re only capable of making mistakes. Don’t think so little of yourself. Don’t assume you’re a failure. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment because you might surprise yourself.

You have so much potential. You might not be able to see it because you’re still stuck on stupid things you’ve done in the past, but it exists. You are going to be okay. You are going to move forward, bit by bit, every single day until you reach a place where you feel comfortable.

You might feel horrible right now, but that doesn’t mean the feeling is going to last a lifetime. This might be one of your worst days, but it’s only temporary. Tomorrow is going to come, and it will bring a whole new set of possibilities. Tomorrow, you might impress yourself. Tomorrow, you might enjoy yourself. Sometimes, you need to take a break from looking behind, and focus on what’s ahead.