Ah! Control! I come from a long line of controllers. We are a take-charge-make-things-happen people, which sounds good until you realize that it’s simply a cover-up. Being able to sit with the vulnerability of not being in control can be excruciating.
This has become a daily challenge for me, as we continue our remodel in Latin America. Sometimes things get done. Sometimes they don’t. Sometimes workers show up. Sometimes they don’t. I am reminded on a daily basis that I need to get my Pura Vida on, lest I give myself an ulcer.
I’m working on it. Some days I have a modicum of success, others not so much, but it’s the awareness of what’s going on with me that really seems to make the difference. When I catch myself and name it, I can find a way to let it go. I breathe. I refocus my attention. I can look at the things I can control and make better choices. I can find humor in the situation and sometimes even laugh at myself.
Whatever is going on inside you, name it. If you can name it, you can do something about it.
If you need results, you need to be and bring your best, and that requires taking responsibility for your emotions – not letting them run amok. It’s not easy (holy smokes do I know that to be true!)!
That’s why it’s reserved for the brave.
Letting go of those things outside of our control is the first step to peace and happiness. Thanks for your thoughts, Kimberly!
Who would have guessed that this could become such a learning opportunity, Kimberly? ( I am sure you feel see the glint in my eye as I write “it happens for you, not to you.”)
Indeed, Charlotte! I’m appreciating your “glint” and gentle reminder!