Letting Go of Worries

  

How to Live Life Like a Child

Quotes:

• "Children are happy because they don't have a file in their minds called 'All The Things That Could Go Wrong.'" - Marianne Williamson
• "In every real man, a child who wants to play is hidden" - Friedrich Nietzsche.
• "To be a child is to be so fully yourself that the world is in harmony with your joy." - Unknown.
• "We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw.

In this blog post, we explored the idea that children are often carefree and happy because they don't have a mental file of worries that hold them back. We also provided tips on breaking free from this mental file and living more authentically.

Remember, embracing uncertainty, practising mindfulness, challenging our beliefs, taking small steps, and playing can all help us let go of worries and live more fully in the present moment. So, let's take inspiration from children and learn to embrace the joy of living without worrying about the future.

As we grow older, we accumulate experiences, knowledge, and responsibilities that shape how we see the world. As a result, we develop beliefs, assumptions, and expectations about how things should be, which can often lead to anxiety, stress, and worry. We become more risk-averse and less willing to take chances, and our thoughts become consumed with our actions' potential adverse outcomes.

However, children often are free of these worries. They live in the moment, playing, learning, and exploring with curiosity and wonder. They don't have a file called "All The Things That Could Go Wrong." But as we grow older, we tend to create this mental file, which can hold us back from truly living our lives.

Here are some tips on how to break free from this mental file and start living life more authentically:

1. Embrace uncertainty: One of the reasons children seem to be more carefree is that they haven't yet learned to fear uncertainty. As adults, we often avoid trying new things or taking risks because we fear the unknown. However, embracing uncertainty can be liberating. It can help us break out of our comfort zones and discover new things about ourselves. So next time you're faced with a choice between the known and the unknown, choose the unknown and see what happens.
2. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is being fully present and engaged at the moment. It can help you let go of your worries and focus on what's happening now. Try spending a few minutes each day practising mindfulness. You can do this by sitting quietly, paying attention to your breath, or doing a guided meditation. Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions and help you break free from the mental file of worries.
3. Challenge your beliefs: Often, our worries are based on beliefs and assumptions that may not be true. For example, you may worry that you must be better, thoughtful, and attractive enough. However, these beliefs are often unfounded and can hold you back from living a fulfilling life. Please take a closer look at your beliefs and challenge them. Ask yourself if they're true, and look for evidence that supports or contradicts them. You may be surprised at how much your worries are based on false beliefs.
4. Take small steps: If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, try breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Taking small actions can help you build momentum and boost your confidence. For example, if you want to start a new hobby but need help knowing where to begin, start by researching online or buying a beginner's kit. Again, taking small steps can help you get out of your head and into action.
5. Play: As we age, we often need to remember how to play. However, play is vital for reducing stress and increasing happiness. Try doing something just for fun, whether playing a game, doing a puzzle, or goofing around with friends. Playing can help you overcome worries and connect with your inner child.

In conclusion, children are happy because they don't have a mental file of worries that hold them back. However, as adults, we can learn to break free from this mental file and start living life more authentically. Embracing uncertainty, practising mindfulness, challenging our beliefs, taking small steps, and playing can all help us let go of worries and live more fully in the present moment.

How to Break Free from the Habit of Seeking Approval

Do you often rely on others' approval to feel confident or make decisions? Do you need a push from someone to reassure you that you're on the right path? If so, you're far from alone. Many people struggle with the constant need for external validation, and while it's a tough habit to break, it's entirely possible.

The urge to seek approval can be rooted in various factors, such as early childhood experiences, societal expectations, or deep-seated personal insecurities. This behaviour can manifest in different ways, whether constantly asking for validation, people-pleasing, or going out of your way to avoid any form of disapproval.

While seeking approval can have benefits, like improving relationships or advancing your career, it becomes a problem when it's your primary source of motivation. Relying too much on others' approval can disconnect you from your own values, goals, and sense of self. Over time, this can lead to burnout, stress, and difficulty saying "no" to things that don't serve you.

If you find yourself caught in this cycle, it's essential to take a moment to reflect and assess why you crave approval in the first place. Ask yourself: What do I truly value? What keeps me up at night? How do I really want to spend my time? You can live a more fulfilling and authentic life by tuning into your genuine desires and aligning your actions with your core values and goals.

Here are some steps to help you break free from the approval-seeking cycle:

1. Be honest with yourself: When taking on a new responsibility or commitment, ask yourself if you're doing it because it feels suitable for you or simply to win approval or avoid criticism.

2. Set boundaries: Learn to say no when a request doesn't align with your values or priorities. Although setting boundaries can initially feel uncomfortable, it's crucial to living a more genuine life.

3. Practice self-care: Make time for yourself and prioritize activities that bring joy and fulfilment. Caring for your own needs will help you reconnect with your inner self and strengthen your values.

4. Focus on intrinsic motivation: Rather than chasing external validation, focus on what intrinsically motivates you. Set meaningful personal goals that align with your values and pursue them for your own sense of satisfaction, not because you want approval from others.

5. Seek support: Breaking the approval-seeking habit is complex, and asking for help is okay. Lean on friends, family, or a therapist for guidance and encouragement.

In conclusion, while seeking approval is common, breaking free from it is essential to living a more authentic and fulfilling life. By reflecting on your values, setting boundaries, and focusing on intrinsic motivation, you can stop relying on others' validation and live in alignment with your true self.