I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. Funny today, FASD is the EASY ONE though it contributed to Type 1 Diabetes, End Stage Kidney failure with dialysis, recovering from brain surgery, and dealing with breathing difficulties. Along the way, I’ve had to learn how to let go of things, events, relationships, and experiences that I hold dear.
This process of letting go is never easy, but it’s essential for finding peace and moving forward. Here are some strategies that have helped me, and I hope they can help you too.
1. Accept Your Emotions
The first step in letting go is to accept your emotions. It’s natural to feel sadness, anger, or regret when letting go of something you cherish. Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment. Acknowledge that it’s okay to grieve the loss, whether it’s a relationship, an experience, or a cherished event.
2. Reflect on What You’ve Learned
Every experience, no matter how painful, offers valuable lessons. Take time to reflect on what you’ve learned from the situation. How has it shaped you? What strengths have you developed as a result? Focusing on the positive aspects and growth can help you appreciate the experience and feel ready to move on.
3. Focus on the Present
It’s easy to get caught up in the past, but focusing on the present can help you let go. Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques to keep yourself in the here and now. Pay attention to your surroundings, your breath, and the current moment. This can reduce anxiety and help you feel more at peace.
4. Create New Routines
When letting go of something significant, filling the void with new routines and activities can be helpful. Engage in hobbies or interests that bring you joy and fulfillment. Creating new memories and experiences can help shift your focus from what you’ve lost to what you’re gaining.
5. Imagine Letting Go
Your imagination can be a powerful tool for letting go. Imagine yourself holding the thing, event, or relationship you need to release. Visualize gently letting it go, watching it drift away, and feeling a sense of lightness and freedom. This mental exercise can help reinforce your intention to let go.
6. Draw or Write It Down
Drawing and writing can be therapeutic. Consider keeping a journal where you express your thoughts and feelings about what you’re letting go of. You can also write a letter to the person, event, or experience, detailing what it meant to you and why it’s time to move on. You don’t have to send the letter; simply writing it can be a powerful act of release.
7. Focus on Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is crucial during this time. Prioritize activities that nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it’s exercise, prayer or meditation, spending time in nature, or enjoying a hobby, self-care can provide the strength and resilience you need to let go.
8. Seek Support
Letting go is not something you have to do alone. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your feelings and experiences can provide relief and offer new perspectives. Support groups, whether in-person or online, can also be a great resource for connecting with others who understand what you’re going through.
9. Practice Self-Love – Be kind to yourself
Be kind to yourself during this process. Understand that letting go takes time and that it’s okay to have setbacks. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Celebrate small victories and be patient with your progress.
Make a list of 50 things you used to like to do…make some big and some simple…include foods, friends, games. Now look at that list and discover if there is one thing you could do as a gift to yourself.
10. Embrace New Beginnings
Letting go often paves the way for new beginnings. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and remain open to new experiences and relationships. Trust that letting go is making space for something positive to enter your life.
Letting go of things, events, relationships, and experiences you hold dear is challenging, but it’s a necessary part of healing and growth. By accepting your emotions, focusing on the present, seeking support, and practicing self-compassion, you can find peace and move forward.
Remember that letting go doesn’t mean forgetting; it means making room for new possibilities and finding joy in the journey ahead.
TODAY’S NOTE: “My life gets smaller and smaller as I must deal with more health issues. I wanted a big wonderful life. Life is too hard right now.” – In Solidarity, Liz
Red Shoes Rock 