Take a breath, your world won't fall apart

I’ve been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to come up with a witty introductory paragraph, but I am feeling more reflective than witty this morning.

So I’ll skip the introduction and share three thoughts that I have been mulling over the past couple of weeks. I hope they bring you the peace and freedom they have brought me.

The world won't fall apart if I let go.

Do you ever feel like things will go to shit if you don't have it all together or don't manage everything and everyone? I am realizing that I take life a little too seriously and tend to take responsibility for things I am not actually responsible for. I’ve given myself almost no room for error – or just a breath. The world will keep spinning even if I don't answer an email immediately or take time for myself.

The stress I was feeling was mostly self-inflicted, rooted in detrimental beliefs and unrealistic expectations. Trying to do, be, and control everything is not possible (surprise, surprise).

Repeat after me:

It’s okay if everything is not done right away.

It’s okay if you let people help you.

It’s okay if you’re not always in control.

Pictured: having some reflection time while in Paris last week

Nothing is permanent.

A profound realization that has brought me peace is the understanding that everything in life is ephemeral. Whether it is joy, sorrow, success, or failure, all experiences are temporary. I am constantly reminded to cherish the present moment and not get too attached to any particular circumstance, thought, or feeling. By acknowledging the impermanence of life, we can let go of our fear of change and embrace the flow. Through this acceptance, we can find solace and appreciation in the beauty of every passing moment.

Being disliked is a rite of passage.

No one likes being disliked, but those circumstances are also a time to sharpen our emotional maturity. Everyone cannot, and will not, like you – and, it’s not your job to make them. The person who needs to like you the most is you. Your goal is not to be liked by others; your goal is to live as honestly, authentically, responsibly, meaningfully, and fully as possible.

The people who resonate with you when you show up authentically are the people who will like the real you – or at least respect you. The people who don’t like the real you are the only ones who will ask you to be inauthentic. This is not a worthy trade. Even if you gain their approval, you will lose your Self.

What’s been a lesson or thought that has brought you peace? Share them in the comments. Let’s start a conversation! x

So, hi. This is me reading my book, It’s On Me. You can too.

If you’re interested in learning about self-loss and how to live an authentic and meaningful life, click here to pre-order.