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Throughout my day, there are moments when my smartwatch buzzes quietly, a gentle reminder to pause. In those fleeting seconds before I silence it, I take a deep breath and repeat the mantra: “Let go.”
This practice emerged a few years ago when I realized that my anxiety often stemmed not from actual events but from the expectations I placed on them. The frustration arose when my imagined scenarios clashed with reality.
For instance, I envision myself as the ideal mother—patient and calm, starting each day in a peaceful, organized home. In reality, I find myself reminding my kids multiple times to stop wrestling or playing baseball in a cluttered house, all while rushing out the door, likely forgetting sunscreen.
8:55 a.m. Let go.
I planned to fit in a yoga session or a brisk walk before diving into work. But one quick email to a potential client derailed my intentions, and soon I was buried in my inbox, missing my morning exercise and facing back-to-back meetings. This cycle of frustration only deepened my anxiety.
10:20 a.m. Let go.
After remembering my car needed a safety inspection, I felt accomplished dropping it off during lunch. But then the mechanic informed me about a tire issue and a broken windshield wiper pump—my car wouldn’t be ready until tomorrow.
1:11 p.m. Let go.
I like to think of myself as someone who checks off every task on my to-do list, gliding through the day feeling accomplished. However, some days, it seems like my tasks multiply unexpectedly, like Gremlins, and I’m left scrambling to keep up.
3:45 p.m. Let go.
I strive to be a parent who provides my children with nutritious, unprocessed meals that they eagerly enjoy, asking for seconds politely. Reality, however, often diverges from that vision.
6:40 p.m. Let go.
As we transition into a season filled with uncertainties regarding work, schools, and travel, I can’t claim to have the right answers. Yet, I’m certain that we will face moments where reality falls short of our expectations. Embracing the present, rather than clinging to an idealized narrative, may be our best strategy moving forward.
Deep breath. Let go.
For more insights, check out this blog that discusses navigating life’s challenges.