Today, I want to encourage you to let something go. Actually, I’d like to encourage you to let three things go: one possession, one excessive activity, and one negative habit. When you’re done, you’ll have at least one less thing and that’s a good thing.
We could all do with one less thing in our lives. Face it, most of us have too much. Our closets are full, our kitchens are stuffed, and our schedules are cluttered. So today, I’d like you to commit to letting a few things go.
One Less Thing: Removing A Possession
Okay, I’m not talking about letting one little tiny thing go. I want you to let go of something that you used to hold important. But over the years, it’s become unused or insignificant to you. You keep holding onto it because you either spent a lot of money on it, or it has an emotional attachment.
For instance, I have a lot of musical instruments. But there’s one guitar that I don’t really play anymore. I’ve hesitated to let it go because it’s worth $1,000. Today, I’m going to post that guitar on reverb.com. I’m also going to get rid of that old sport jacket I haven’t worn in years.
Do you have something you need to let go? It’s okay to sell it, give it away, or even throw it out if it’s garbage. Recycle if at all possible. Just let it go.
One Less Thing: Removing Something From Your Schedule
Between my work, my daughter’s school, and our extra activities, we stay busy. Maybe, we’re too busy. You know what I’m talking about. How many times have you found yourself rushing from one activity or event to another? It’s time to unbusy yourself. You can start by letting go of one thing on your schedule.
Recently, I did just that. Last year, I was asked to join a book club. I’ve always been a reader, so I jumped on the invitation. But I discovered that I was always rushing to get my assigned reading done. The meetings also conflicted with the karate lessons my daughter and I take together. So I emailed the group and told them I was sorry, but I could no longer attend. It was that simple.
Do you have something on your schedule that leads to overload? Let it go.
One Less Thing: Removing A Negative Habit
I’m not going to lie. This might be more difficult. Letting go of a bad habit requires time. The best way to do this is to replace the bad habit with something better.
For example, sometimes I spend too much time online. A few weeks ago, I decided to limit my Internet time. I didn’t turn off my service or unplug my devices. Instead, I picked up my guitar. That’s right. I limited my screen time by focusing on playing slide on my old 1958 Harmony archtop. Guess what? Not only did I start spending less time online, but my slide work has improved greatly.
Could you replace a negative habit with a more positive one?
That’s it! Your week’s assignment is simply to learn to live with one less thing. I did it. Now it’s your turn.
