Did someone who hurt you, reach out to you again? Do they want to reconcile? Do you have that one person who bounces in and out of your life and they want back in?
Maybe it’s ex-love, a close friend, an acquaintance, or a family member who has reached out again.
Have you put up walls to protect your emotions, self-worth and self-esteem, but you find they’re creeping back in your life?
When figuring out how long it takes to heal, there isn’t one across-the-board, concrete answer. Each person heals in their own time, regardless of how long it may take — weeks, months, or even years.
So, when do we allow people back in our lives who want back in?
This typically isn’t a simple yes or no answer either. And this is precisely why it’s so irritating and confusing.
Losing or cutting off someone you love or care about can be difficult. It becomes overwhelming and complicated as there are hundreds of unanswered questions ruminating in our heads as well as raw emotions. Past hurt often resurfaces.
I suggest asking yourself some of the following questions:
- Am I willing to set and follow ground rules?
- Am I willing to walk away if they don’t respect the boundaries I set for the relationship?
- Are we going back into this connection with a mutual respect?
- Is allowing this person back in my life what’s best for me?
- Am I willing to be honest about where I stand?
If you answered yes to these questions, you’re probably in a good space to reopen the thought of letting them back into your life. If this decision remains uncertain, overwhelming or complicated, consider talking to a therapist who can help navigate your thoughts and feelings.
Carrie
