Struggling to Forgive Yourself? Pottery Can Be the First Step

Self-forgiveness doesn’t have to be a grand moment. It can start quietly—with your hands in clay, your breath steady, and the judgment finally fading.

Maybe it was a mistake you made. A person you hurt. A version of yourself you wish you could erase. Whatever the reason, the weight you carry is heavy—and relentless. You want to let go. But every time you try, the guilt tightens its grip.

At The Clay Hole, we don’t ask you to forgive overnight. We simply offer a space where you can begin again—again and again—with every piece you create.

Pottery Gives You Practice in Grace

Clay doesn’t hold grudges. It doesn’t care how long it takes you to learn. It’s forgiving—when you mess up, you wedge it again. Start over. Try differently. And over time, you begin to realize: maybe I can do that for myself, too.

At The Clay Hole in Draper, Utah, we offer a membership-based space where you can return every week—not to prove anything, but to keep showing up for yourself. And that alone is an act of self-forgiveness.

Why Pottery Heals When You Carry Regret

Research shows that creative self-expression improves emotional regulation, reduces shame, and builds self-compassion (source). Pottery allows you to make mistakes without punishment. It lets you try again without judgment. That’s rare—and powerful.

With every piece, you build something new. You begin to replace the inner critic with a quieter, kinder voice. You begin to believe you might be worthy of softness, too.

The Clay Hole Is a Place to Start Over—As Many Times as You Need

• No judgment—just creativity, calm, and community
• A chance to make and remake without shame
• 4 instructors per class to guide you gently
• Space to be quiet, reflective, and inward-facing
• Kind people, kind lighting, kind energy
• Weekly classes to reinforce trust and self-connection

You’re allowed to begin again here. And again. And again. Each time, a little more gentle. A little more whole.

Conclusion

Self-forgiveness isn’t a single act. It’s a series of small choices to show up, create, and care for yourself—even when it’s hard. Pottery at The Clay Hole offers a safe place to start. You don’t have to believe you’re worthy yet. We’ll help you remember.

"Forgiveness felt impossible—until I stopped chasing it. Pottery gave me peace I didn’t know I was allowed to have."

— Liana F., Clay Hole Member

Written by Dan Pearce, potter, survivor, and founder of The Clay Hole. Dan created this space as a refuge for people who need to start over—without shame or deadlines.