Time to live Part 7: Learning to let go

Sometimes we first have to say goodbye to certain things in order to recognize what is good for us - and what we actually need.

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If you want to fly, you have to throw off whatever is pulling you down. Let's go!

Feel freedom. Floating through life carefree, like a bird in the wind - a beautiful idea. But far too often we allow ourselves to be dragged down by everyday problems, feel the pressure to perform and feel overwhelmed. Then there are the things that we accumulate and collect - without realizing that they take away more energy than they give. Time to let go of everything that prevents us from spreading our wings and finally taking flight.

Rethink routines instead of letting them restrict us
We are busy running in the hamster wheel of everyday life and often don't realize that habits are creeping into our lives that are not good for our souls. Write down your routines and how they make you feel. What do you really enjoy? Where could a change do you good?

Consciously experience and re-evaluate the here and now
One obstacle on the path to happiness is constantly thinking about the past or the future. Put an end to "If only I had ..." and "What if ...". Instead, tell yourself: I'm living right now - and that's a good thing! Look at all the wonderful things that today brings. Quite a lot, isn't it?

Forgive yourself and tick off conflicts more quickly
Mistakes happen to everyone, without exception. But many people find it difficult to forgive themselves and others and simply tick off misfortunes. Don't carry conflicts around with you any longer. Try to settle disputes quickly. Be generous - to yourself and others.

Hand over responsibility and don't overburden yourself
We often take on too much for ourselves because we want to have everything under control. We believe we have to please everyone and are afraid to show weakness. Throw this burden overboard. You don't have to be perfect. Nobody is, and nobody expects you to be. You can delegate responsibility for many things to other trusted people. You don't have to deal with worries yourself either. Actively ask for help when you need it. It makes so many things easier.

Celebrate your own strengths and stop comparing yourself
Others have it so much better in life? Are they more successful, prettier, more popular? Comparing yourself to others often leads to self-doubt or even envy. Don't give room to these negative feelings. Instead, look at yourself - with an honest, loving gaze. Ask family, friends and colleagues what they specifically admire about you. Rejoice in your small successes and strengths every day. Celebrate these - also with others.

Sort out useless stuff to clear your head
Too many possessions can be a burden. Let go and travel light from now on. First determine what your favorites are that you don't want to part with under any circumstances. If you are unsure about some things, pick them up and ask yourself: Do I really still enjoy them? Would I buy them again? Would I miss it in the future? If the answer is no: get rid of it. Donate or sell your superfluous items. You will immediately feel better.

Distance yourself from problems, focus on the essentials
There are days when everything seems to go wrong. We flounder from one mishap to the next, asking: "Why is it always me?" A stressful thought. It is then very important to distance ourselves from the problems: They are external - and not part of our inner self. They don't have to have power over us. It is up to us how we evaluate them and how quickly we let go of them. We can gratefully accept them as an experience - and then send them away.

Shake off weight and take time out more often
Throughout the day, we often think about upcoming duties and appointments, we feel their weight on our shoulders and allow them to drag us down easily. At such moments, mentally hold a stop sign in front of your eyes. Relax your body, take a deep breath, shake off the weight and feel yourself. Turn all "must" appointments into "want" appointments and accept challenges for what they are: an opportunity to grow. Our thoughts are free - and they set us free. If that doesn't inspire you...

10 things you should let go of

A little inspiration to help you feel more carefree, content and fulfilled.

1 Free yourself from the fear of the unknown. Instead, take a small step towards it. Next time, take a slightly bigger one.
2 Let go of remorse and regret. At the time, what you did was the right thing to do.
3 Let go of your worries. Worrying is like asking for things you don't really want.
4 Don't tell yourself that you are not where you should be in your life. You are in exactly the right position to get to where you want to be.
5 Don't think you need to know exactly how to do something. You learn things best by doing them.
6 Stop blaming others for your feelings. If you don't like something, you have a choice: accept it or change it.
7 Don't think you have to fit in and be accepted by everyone. You are unique.
8 Shake off the idea that your dreams are not as important as those of others. Follow the voice of your heart.
9 Banish all remorse if you are only doing something because it is good for you. Because you have earned it.
10 Free yourself from the idea that there is a right or wrong way of doing something or looking at the world. Enjoy the contrasts and diversity of life.