I’ll be honest: I have a hard time finding ways to learn to let go and relax. I know this, I’m aware of it, yet it’s one of the hardest things for me to do. I’ve been a perfectionist my whole life, and though I don’t expect other people to be, I am always way too serious with myself. Knowing this, I’ve challenged myself the last few years with ways to learn to let go and enjoy life more. I’m not perfect at this, and it’s been pretty tough for a focused, organized freak like myself, but I am getting there slowly, very slowly! Check out my tips and what I’m learning and maybe you can share some with me too.
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1. Don’t Plan 24/7
I’m one of those nerds that enjoys planning things to the core, and I actually enjoy this about myself, but when learning ways to learn to let go, I’ve had to stop with so much planning. I realized that I can’t control my life with my calendar or planner, despite the security it seems to bring. Once in a while, stop checking your calendar and just do things on a whim. Obviously, this doesn’t mean neglecting your work, bills or relationships, but once in a while, it’s okay to just fly by the seat of your pants and take a day for yourself, or with others. Don’t worry what time everything will take place and just try to go with the flow.
2. Laugh More
As positive a spirit as I have, I don’t laugh enough! I think this is kind of sad, as I have such a joyful heart and yet I don’t take the time to laugh enough. Laughing helps you learn to let go, and it’s good for the soul. Put in a funny movie, read a funny blog, turn on a favorite television show or listen to a funny podcast. Or, just have coffee with a humorous friend. Anything to help you get in a few laughs will help you naturally learn to let go. Trust me, it works!
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3. Go New Places
Another great tip for learning to let go a little is to start going to new places occasionally. Visit new bookstores, restaurants, shopping malls, and even take a new route to work. These all put you out of your routine, which slowly helps you learn to have a more spontaneous and adventurous spirit.
4. Travel More
I love to travel, but I get so anxious over all the planning that I rarely do it. Yet, traveling is a great way to learn to let go a little. I love exploring new places and every time I do, or travel to a place I love dearly like New York City, I always feel so much happier, more adventurous and I’m not so serious with myself. Traveling is a great way to expose yourself to new cultures, ideas and parts of yourself you never knew existed. Even a day trip an hour away is a great place to start!
5. Get a Spontaneous Friend
There’s no better way to learn to let go than to find a friend who’s incredibly spontaneous. Perhaps they like doing things on a whim, taking a trip out of town for the day or just doing new, fun things. Spontaneous doesn’t have to mean irresponsible or dangerous, so know the difference. Spontaneous just means they aren’t afraid to let go and try new things. Hanging around people like this really will help you loosen up, and it’s always been something that helps me do the same.
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6. Get out of Your Comfort Zone
Another great tip for learning to let go is to get out of your comfort zone. This might mean trying new foods, meeting new people and even dating if you’re not! Doing new things that make you uncomfortable, but that aren’t harmful of course, is a great way to learn to let go. You’ll be surprised by just how much better you’ll feel once you take steps to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.
7. Consider the Why
Lastly, when learning ways to learn to let go, really take time to consider why you want to do this. You’ve only got one life, do you really want to live it not embracing the moment? I have to remind myself this from time to time, and it always does the trick! The next thing you know, after I’ve had my pep talk with myself, I’m embracing the now and trying new things. Give it a go for yourself and I bet you’ll see what I mean.
Learning to let go isn’t easy because being in control is kind of a security mechanism I enjoy most of the time. It also helps me be better at my job, due to my organizational nature, however I have to remember that things can’t be complete seriousness all the time. Life’s too short, so smile more and let go a little! Are you in? How do you learn to let go?
