This is the next post in our “Basics of Happiness” series. This series allows me to explain my take on happiness and what I believe to be useful steps on the journey to happiness as a state of being. The content in this series is also the foundation of my book-in-progress.
If I were to estimate, I would say that probably half of learning to be happy as a state of being is letting go. Letting go is a huge part of health, happiness and life in general.
What is letting go?
At its most basic level, letting go is identifying the things (mental, emotional, spiritual and physical) that no longer benefit, serve, help or positively affect you, and consciously choosing to remove them from your life.
Let’s do an exercise. Do you remember the last time you felt angry, sad, upset, guilty or not good enough? Can you identify what made you feel that way? Whatever it was, something about it is no longer serving you. Anything that makes you feel less than the amazing creature you are is not positively affecting you.
We each have unique internal makeups, and, as such, our “letting go” needs are different. Generally speaking, on the path to happiness, you may find you need to let go of:
- Judgement
- Thought patterns
- Belief structures
- People and relationships
- Attachment
- Emotional reactions
- Drama
- Grudges
- Non-physical wounds
- The past and other holdings
.
Can you identify the things in your life that no longer benefit, serve, help or positively affect you? Take a few minutes and make your own list. It may include all or none of these things. It might be some of these things and more. Don’t worry if you can’t identify much to begin with — the more you practice bringing your awareness to authentic happiness, the easier it will become to do the things involved in this process.
What did you come up with? Did anything (or everything) on your list surprise you? If you feel comfortable with it, you are welcome and encouraged to share your list in the comments. :D
As with most things in this series, letting go is a practice you will take with you throughout your life. Know that. Understand that even what seems like the smallest step is huge progress and is to be celebrated as such.
A note about support — If you’re following along with this series and using the exercises and practices I discuss, you may find you need support, clarification, explanation, or just someone with whom to dialogue. I am always available — feel free to leave comments or contact me via email.
Next post: More to help you let go.
Tags: Authenticity, Bliss, Choice, Happiness, Joy, Let Go, Self, Truth
