We’ve all been there—standing in front of our closets, staring into what feels like a bottomless pit of “nothing to wear.”
Suddenly, that wardrobe full of choices feels like an existential crisis. You’re already running late, of course.
And before you know it, you’re on a roll—bumping elbows, rushing the kids, honking at slow drivers. The bad mood snowballs, and now, everything sets you off.
By the time you get to work, you’re convinced the universe is out to get you.
But here’s the truth, my friends: The universe isn’t your enemy. The problem is that you’re hanging onto the negativity as if it’s your ticket to some sort of cosmic validation.
It’s not. In fact, it’s doing quite the opposite—it’s blocking your ability to move forward, to thrive, and to let positive energy flow.
If you want to grow, it’s time to let that sh*t go.
How We Create Our Own Blockages
When you’re faced with a day like the one above, it’s easy to blame the circumstances: the traffic, the uncooperative children, the fact that your coffee tastes like regret. But the real issue isn’t the situation; it’s how you respond to it.
We often cling to negative experiences like they’re prized possessions, replaying them in our minds and making them the focal point of our day. The more we hold onto the bad, the more we block the good from coming in.
Imagine life as a river of experiences. Some are calm, others turbulent, but the river keeps flowing. When we cling to the negative—whether it’s a snarky email or that careless driver—it’s like dropping an anchor in that river.
Suddenly, we’re stuck, unable to move forward, even as the river continues to rush past us.
Choosing to Experience, Not Oppose
Here’s the thing: Negative experiences will happen.
So will positive ones.
The key is learning to fully experience what life brings without getting bogged down by it. Yes, a rainy day can be annoying, but it’s not personal.
Yes, the stubbed toe is painful, but it’s not a conspiracy. When we choose to resist what’s happening, we create tension, and that tension quickly manifests as anxiety, frustration, and even depression.
The easiest way to let go?
Be present.
The only moment you truly control is the one you’re experiencing right now. Not five minutes ago when you spilled coffee on your favorite blouse, and not tomorrow when you have that meeting you’re dreading.
Just now.
Focus on what you can do in the here and now, and you’ll start to feel that tension melt away.
Changing Your Internal Dialogue
Let’s reimagine that chaotic morning from a different angle.
- Reality Check #1: You’re running late, and your elbow connects with the door frame. Instead of muttering curses that’d make a sailor blush, pause for a second. Yes, it hurts. No, it’s not the end of the world. Take a breath, and move on. Tell yourself, “I’ll lay out my clothes tonight—lesson learned.”
- Reality Check #2: The kids are dragging their feet. Instead of snapping at them, acknowledge that mornings are tough for everyone. Adjust your approach: “Hey guys, Mom is running a bit late, so let’s do our best to hustle.” Simple. Done.
- Reality Check #3: That driver in front of you is scrolling through her phone at the green light. Instead of raging, offer a quick tap of the horn, not a blast. When she waves apologetically, smile. It’s not worth losing your peace over.
Same events, but a radically different day—one that feels manageable, not miserable. All you did was adjust your perspective, choose acceptance, and let go of what you couldn’t control.
Accepting What Is
Think about how you handle unexpected rain. You grab an umbrella. You don’t stand outside screaming at the sky, demanding it stop. You accept it and adjust. Why can’t we do the same with other life events?
- Lost your job? It’s devastating, but it’s not the end. Start your job search—take action in the present moment.
- Missed a promotion? Learn from it, and focus on becoming even better at what you do.
Just as we’d shield ourselves from rain, we need to protect our joy. And sometimes, that means learning to let go of the weight that keeps us stuck.
Moving Forward, Joyfully
It’s not about pretending that life is always sunny and bright. It’s about recognizing that the storm clouds will come, but they don’t have to drown you.
Your joy is worth protecting, and that starts with letting go of what holds you back. It’s about choosing your response and moving forward instead of replaying past frustrations.
Ladies, life is a mix of ups and downs. You’re here to experience it all—but you don’t have to let the negative moments define you.
Release what doesn’t serve you, and watch how light you feel. When you let go, you’ll find you’ve made room for the joy you’ve been chasing all along.
So, are you ready to let that sh*t go?
Last modified: October 30, 2024