The payoff? Yep, there are HUGE benefits to shedding those things that hold us back (Part 1). Despite the pitfalls (Part 2), when we get rid of what holds us back, our lives change for the better.
We are liberated! When you aren’t burdened by the pressure of trying to please everyone, you aren’t nearly as stressed. Letting go of the past frees your mind of old haunts and useless clutter. Trying new things, thinking new thoughts, and pursuing new goals teaches us that we can leave old habits behind, improve our way of thinking, and build confidence.
We feel better physically! Y’all, I read that constantly thinking bad thoughts actually takes a toll on your body at the cellular level. Your muscles and your organs can stop working properly just because you’re encumbered with negative thinking. I can’t imagine being sick, in pain, or suffering from some malady because I can’t get my shit together in my mind and soul, but I have sure done it to myself.
We have stronger relationships that matter! Truly, when you change your mindset and seek to grow, people fall away, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Growth can yield a new circle, one that is of a similar mind, encourages you, and who also looks to evolve. Leaving behind complainers, those who are stuck in the ruts they created, people unwilling to step back and examine what’s holding them back…that’s a good thing. We are only as good as the company we keep.
We can accept ourselves for who we really are! This one is HUGE! When you can finally FIND and BE your authentic self, you can settle in and be happy with yourself. You don’t have to pretend anymore, you don’t have to wear a mask, and you don’t have to fake it. I like the me that’s not hung up on who I’m supposed to be, whether I’ll disappoint someone, or if people will like me. I mean, I really like her. She’s the coolest!
We change the world! Nope, that’s not a hyperbole. I really believe that each of us, one at a time, has the power to make the world better. We can be the change we want to see, and it can catch on. If only everyone thought that!
Go for growth, Y’all. Regardless of how old you are, how much money you have, what your position in life, let that mess go and shoot for better. Get really freaking serious about self awareness, boldly tackle those issues you’ve been carrying around, cry it out, scream and bitch…then move on! Fix your mind and your heart. Walk away from people who don’t fit you anymore…you’ve outgrown them, and that’s ok. Go to therapy, ask for help.
And you know what else…don’t apologize! Do not make excuses, and do not explain. Block out the judgment and let the opinions blow away with the wind. Work on being the person you were meant to be, and create the life you were meant to live. That’s the ultimate pay off…and it can be yours!
Amanda Herring, Writer 