Understanding when letting go is the right thing to do

Life is full of surprises. Some bigger than others. And sometimes we’re occasionally hit with some unexpected news that can be difficult to let go of and move on from. But, letting go is important.

Here are five simple ways to help you understand when letting go is the right thing to do.

Express your negative emotions

When you’re used to bottling your emotions up or letting them get the better of you, change can seem unrealistic. But a few tweaks to your usual reactions can make all the difference.

When you next feel the need to vent, take a break. Step back and breathe. Then, try something new. Let go of your negative emotions by opening up to someone; a friend, family member, or someone you trust at work.

If talking seems too hard, writing can help. Daily reflections through journaling or writing an open letter is an easy way to express your feelings, rather than give in to them.

Both options are simple, small, and extremely effective ways of letting go. Articulating your emotions can seem intrusive, but life feels lighter when you do.

Self-acceptance

Learning to let go takes practice. Finding new ways to nail negativity is useful, but it’s just the first step. Self-acceptance comes next.

Being you is your superpower. So, champion that. When you want to let go and live well, be kind to yourself. Embrace your own beliefs. Stand by your values. Your individuality is a strength. Your unique views are a charm. And it’s time for you to accept that.

Hush your inner critic and make room for positive thoughts. Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and comforts, listens and guides. Never feel inadequate for being yourself.

Everyday life is full of chances to let go. It doesn’t have to a big deal or grand gesture. Something as simple as forgiveness, and forgiving yourself, can lighten your load.

Recognise the signs of living in the past

A secret to happiness? Living in the present.

As they say, the past is in the past. So, leave it there. Holding on to it only causes harm. Change seems scary but opting to see it as an opportunity to grow can make it a positive and exciting challenge.

Self-blame should also be shelved. Reflecting on old incidents, stirring up history, and reliving bad experiences is the one-way street you don’t want to be on. Leave it be and step into today.

Constant comparison is another tell-all sign that you’re afraid to let go. But when you’re living in the past, you’re missing the chance to make today amazing.

If you’re suffering from low self-esteem, ask yourself if you’d accept that for your child? Would you want them to move on? Unsettling emotions like bitterness aren’t helping you –they’re holding you back. Here’s your chance to take a break from living on autopilot and make a positive shift.

Create a healthy life balance

To let go is to be mindful and present. And to do so, you need a healthy life balance that brings your mind and body together.

For the mind, encourage yourself to embrace positive thoughts. Say no to the negative and practice gratitude instead. Celebrate with self-care. An indulgent bubble bath before bed. A quick meditation session before the day starts. They’re tiny by mighty moments that get you back on track.

For the body, prioritise nourishment and enjoyment. Opt for well-balanced meals among your heartier favourites and find enjoyment in exercise.

As you welcome balance into your everyday life, letting go is less of a chore. 

Identify your emotional habits

Positive changes make an impression, but old habits easily reappear. To minimise the chance of that, identify your emotional habits with daily reflections. Monitor your thoughts and identify the emotional triggers that need more work.

To do this, turn to quick and easy ideas, like:

• Journal. Writing out your thoughts and feelings for a few minutes each day brings them to the surface.
• Use an app. Tracking your moods and emotions with apps like MoodTrack Diary or MindShift is easy when you’re on the go.
• Mindfulness. Taking a few moments to breathe and process how you’re feeling helps. When you first wake up, as you arrive at work, or before you go to bed. Breathe and notice how you’re feeling, then consciously make a change.
• Ask. Those closest to you know you well, so ask for their feedback. Your loved ones will often pick up on your emotional pressure points, even when you don’t.

When you take responsibility for your actions, everything changes. Positive thoughts will start to replace their negative counterparts. And only small steps are required to make it happen. Enjoy the process of letting go, you deserve it.