The Truth Letter Exercise

Sometimes we can resolve issues with people by writing an honest letter to them – sometimes we do not even need to give them the letter, but the mere process of acknowledging what troubles you is enough to resolve it inside yourself. Use this template to help you express your feelings on paper.

Dear …………

I am writing this letter to release my resentment and negative emotions and to discover and express any positive feelings that I might have towards you.

 

ANGER

I don’t like…

I feel angry…

I hate it when…

I can’t stand…

I resent…

 

HURT

It hurt me when…

I feel hurt that…

I feel sad when…

I feel awful about…

I feel disappointed about…

 

FEAR

I’m afraid that…

I feel scared when…

I’m afraid…

I get afraid of you when…

 

REMORSE, REGRET, ACCOUNTABILITY

I’m sorry that…

Please forgive me for…

I’m sorry for…

I didn’t mean to…

 

WANTS

All I ever wanted…

I want you to…

I want…

I deserve…

 

LOVE, COMPASSION, FORGIVENESS, APPRECIATION

I understand that…

I appreciate…

I forgive you for…

I love you because…

I love you when…

Thank you for…

 

Adapted from Jack Canfield, 1997 Self Esteem Seminars, Santa Barbara, USA.