Healing Isn’t Linear: Why You Don’t Need to Get Over It
If you’ve ever thought, I should be over this by now, you’re not alone. Many people believe healing is a straight path from broken to fixed. In reality, it’s a winding journey with progress, pauses, and unexpected turns.
The Myth of the Straight Line
We live in a culture that values quick fixes and clear timelines. This can make it hard to accept that emotional healing doesn’t work that way. Some days you’ll feel light and free; others, the old feelings may come back as if they never left. That’s not failure, it’s an important part of the process. Every time we go backwards we learn something to help us continue with our growth - embrace the lesson and keep going.
Why the Ups and Downs Happen
Healing is like peeling back layers. Each time you reach a new layer, you might uncover emotions or memories you weren’t ready to face before. It’s not regression, it’s your mind and body trusting that you’re ready to go deeper.
How to Stay Steady in the Swings
- Remind yourself: This is part of it.
- Celebrate the small wins, even if they feel insignificant.
- Avoid comparing your journey to someone else’s - no two paths look the same.
- Allow rest and integration time after big emotional work.
You don’t get over something that’s shaped you; you learn to carry it differently, with more compassion and less weight.
Rachel Shaw
Rachel Shaw
