Forgiveness is a complicated issue for many. The topic is challenging because it requires facing and dealing with severe problems. Often to forgive means accepting uncomfortable behaviours.
Many works at forgiving others but when it relates to forgiving self, it becomes harder. Sometimes being hard on ourselves is a pattern learnt early in life. Either through what you saw around you or through the criticism and negative messages of others.
It becomes normal to rehearse the things you do that are wrong, highlighting the mistakes you made. Somehow not forgiving yourself faults almost acts like justification. Our sense of justice demands that someone suffer and sometimes that person is you.
Forgiving yourself is essential to healing.
When you forgive yourself, you can open yourself up to love. Unforgiveness close you off from joy, peace and contentment.