Let It Go, Again.

Last September, I wrote about the need to Let It Go (please give it a reread if possible). Last week, I wrote about missed opportunities and failures (another solid one). I thought it might be necessary to reiterate these conversations albeit from a different point of view.

As humans, it is easy for us to become obsessed with people, events and things. This obsession often prevents us from realizing our full potential. You might be reading this and saying to yourself, “I don't think I have this problem, Peter.” Well, I'm glad that you do not. But just in case, please humor me for about a minute as I explore what this looks like on a day-to-day basis.

Example #1. Your colleague was selected as V.P. instead of you. And you know that he is not as qualified, is hard to get along with and does not possess the capabilities to be successful in that position. And you have to see him (in this new position) everyday.

Example #2. Your boss says she loves everything that you do. But when it comes time to run the new branch, there is never a reasonable explanation as to why you were not given the keys. And it seems that this is a regular occurrence. 

Example #3. The person or person's that you voted for in the election did not win. And you poured your heart and soul into the election effort. Now you have four years of an elected official that you do not love.

Example #4. The team you play on lost the game yesterday. And to make matters worse, you were a big part of the reason that the outcome was what it was.

You see, in our lives, we have and will encounter many events that do not turn out quite how we envisioned. And of course, you already know you have the choice to react, respond or do nothing relative to each situation. After you have made the correct choice, it will be time to move on. To leave that person, event or situation in the past. Yes, learn from it. And adjust accordingly. But do not take it with you. By doing so, you are carrying negative stimuli (extra baggage) unnecessarily. And as mentioned last week, those of us who can let go of negative stimuli the fastest set ourselves up for success much better than those of us who are holding on. So, for your own health, focus and mindset, Let It Go (again).

Don’t dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energy moving forward together towards an answer. ~Denis Waitley