Why Forgiveness Is the Best Medicine

As I watched Shrinking Season 2, Episode 8 on Apple TV, I found myself utterly engrossed in the scene where Jimmy forgives Louis for killing his wife in a drunk-driving accident—a moment so powerful it shook me to my core. It felt like a wake-up call, reminding me that forgiveness is an extraordinary and rare skill. Many of us struggle to grasp it, and I'll admit, I am no exception.

This episode stirred memories from a pivotal chapter of my life. When I was a student at San Diego State University, I had the privilege of befriending Tariq Khamisa (TK), a vibrant and kind young man who left a mark on everyone he met. But in 1995, tragedy struck. At just 20 years old, TK was shot and killed while delivering pizzas in San Diego. His death sent shockwaves through our community, leaving many of us drowning in bitterness and overwhelmed by a thirst for revenge.

That same year, as I tried to process the meaning of life, I took a pause from college and transferred to the University of the Pacific. While there, an unexpected encounter changed my perspective. One day in the library, I noticed an open issue of Newsweek sitting on a rack, featuring a photo of TK. I instinctively picked it up and began to read. The article told the story of Azim Khamisa , TK’s father, and his awe-inspiring decision to forgive the young man who had taken his son’s life. It was a moment I couldn’t comprehend—it felt impossible to imagine such grace. Yet, his act of forgiveness planted a seed of transformation in my own heart. You can read more about Azim's act of forgiveness here: https://www.theforgivenessproject.com/stories-library/azim-khamisa-ples-felix/

Even now, I can’t claim mastery of forgiveness; it’s a process I am still navigating. But TK’s story, Azim’s poignant choice, and even fictional tales like Shrinking remind me that forgiveness isn’t just about the offender—it’s a gift for yourself. It is a medicine that heals the soul, restores clarity, and unlocks the potential for growth. And, as we’ll explore, it’s every bit as vital in the world of business as it is in personal life.

Forgiveness in Business—Why It Matters

You may be asking yourself, what does forgiveness have to do with business? Think about it. Have you ever been betrayed by a colleague who sabotaged your success to advance their own career? Had a boss who unceremoniously fired you without a fair reason? What did it feel like in those moments? Anger? Bitterness? Maybe even a desire for vengeance?

Now consider this—could forgiveness be the key to moving forward?

Forgiveness in the workplace isn’t a soft skill; it’s a strategic asset. It’s the ability to release resentment and focus on progress, not grudges. Here are three compelling reasons why forgiveness is the best medicine in business:

1. Forgiveness Fuels Productivity

When you cling to resentment over workplace conflicts, you’re not just holding on to emotional baggage—you’re draining your energy. Studies show that harboring bitterness can reduce focus and cognitive function. On the flip side, forgiving someone can lift that mental burden and allow you to refocus on achieving your goals.

Think about it—what would happen if you channeled the energy spent on resentment into innovation, collaboration, or simply doing your best work?

2. It Builds Stronger Relationships

Forgiveness lays the foundation for trust, a crucial pillar in any successful business. When leaders and colleagues demonstrate forgiveness, it sets a powerful example for teams, fostering a culture of understanding and mutual respect. Imagine a workplace where mistakes are met with constructive feedback rather than punishment, where people are given the space to grow and improve. Doesn’t that sound like a healthier, more productive environment?

3. Forgiveness Strengthens Leadership

Great leaders know that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. Leaders who can forgive create a space where their teams can take risks without fear of retribution. This, in turn, drives innovation and boosts morale. A forgiving leader demonstrates emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to focus on the bigger picture.

How to Foster Forgiveness in the Workplace

If forgiveness is such a powerful tool, how do we cultivate it? Here are some actionable steps to bring forgiveness into your professional life:

1. Pause and Reflect: Before reacting to a situation, take a moment to reflect on what happened and why it upset you. Was the offense intentional, or was it a misunderstanding? Understanding the root cause can often defuse the intensity of your emotions.
2. Separate the Person from the Action: Remember that people make mistakes. Holding someone accountable doesn’t have to mean holding a grudge.
3. Have an Honest Conversation: Open communication can work wonders. Sometimes, all it takes is a candid conversation to clear the air and move forward.
4. Focus on Growth: Shift your perspective from punishment to progress. How can you and the other party learn from this situation? What steps can you take to prevent it in the future?
5. Take Ownership Where Necessary: Forgiveness is a two-way street. Be willing to acknowledge your own mistakes and seek forgiveness when needed.

Forgiveness as a Competitive Edge

Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or allowing injustice to persist. It means letting go of the chains that hold you back—chains of resentment, anger, or the need for vindication. It’s about freeing yourself to focus on what matters most—your vision, your growth, and your success.

What if we, as professionals, saw forgiveness as an act of empowerment rather than concession? Thriving businesses aren’t built on perfect people; they’re built on resilient people who can overcome challenges, adapt, and create something remarkable despite setbacks.

Take a moment to reflect. Is there someone you need to forgive? A boss? A colleague? Even yourself? Don’t wait for the perfect time or the perfect apology. Forgiveness is a decision you make for yourself—a decision to move forward.

Together, Let's Make a Difference

Forgiveness, whether in business or in life, is a discipline worth mastering. It is a tool that reshapes our view of others, our ability to lead, and even our relationship with ourselves. Just as Azim Khamisa’s act of forgiveness forever changed the lives of those touched by his story, your choice to forgive could set the stage for transformation in your own life and workplace.

And who knows? The next time you face adversity, you might find yourself extending a hand not to retaliate, but to rebuild. That’s real strength, and in today’s world, it might just be the best medicine.

Have thoughts or experiences on forgiveness in your professional life? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective! Also, if you are moved by this post and would like to donate to the Tariq Khamisa Foundation (TKF) , please visit the following link: https://tkf.networkforgood.com/projects/79228-website-donate-page

Thank you for reading!