As the year comes to a close, many of us reflect on what we’ve achieved, what we’ve endured, and what we need to release to move forward. It’s a time to assess what’s weighing us down and, more importantly, to let it go. But letting go is easier said than done. This is something I had to learn the hard way during one of the most challenging assignments of my career.
Letting go was not a choice I made lightly, but it was necessary. Here’s how I turned resentment, frustration, and perfectionism into a season of clarity, connection, and peace.
When Holding On Hurts More Than Letting Go
During my most recent assignment, I found myself tested in ways I didn’t expect. It wasn’t just the workload or the challenges themselves—it was the emotional toll others’ perception of me took on me. Their uninformed criticism turned into frustration which before I knew it, turned into resentment and that emotion crept in, and soon enough, I realized these emotions weren’t just staying at work. They were following me home.
I caught myself replaying negative moments in my head, allowing them to fester and spill over into my family time. My resentment was stealing my joy, my presence, and my peace. And for what? I realized that if I didn’t make a change, I’d ruin precious moments with my loved ones—and I didn’t deserve that.
Journaling: My Emotional Release Valve
Letting go wasn’t easy, but journaling made it possible. I turned to my notebook as a safe space to unload the heaviness I felt. Writing became my way of understanding the emotions swirling in my head.
Why was I so upset? What exactly was I holding onto? Journaling helped me name my emotions and trace their roots. When I could put words to what I was feeling, it was like shining a light into the dark corners of my mind. Suddenly, those overwhelming feelings didn’t seem so insurmountable.
By acknowledging my emotions instead of ignoring or suppressing them, I was able to process them and release them. The act of writing didn’t just help me vent—it helped me heal.
The Realization That Changed Everything
Through journaling, I realized something profound: holding onto resentment and frustration was robbing me of the present moment. It was stealing time I could never get back, time that should’ve been spent laughing with my family, enjoying my life, and being fully present in the now.
I knew then that I had a choice to make. I could continue carrying those heavy emotions, letting them poison my days, or I could let them go and reclaim my peace.
Building a Plan for Emotional Balance
Journaling didn’t just help me let go—it also helped me prepare for the future. I knew I’d face triggers in my day-to-day life, especially since the emotions from this experience were still raw. So, I created a plan:
- Identify Triggers: I reflected on situations that might reignite those negative emotions and prepared myself mentally for how I’d respond.
- Daily Check-Ins: I made journaling a regular habit, using it as a way to process emotions before they had a chance to build up.
- Self-Compassion: I reminded myself that it’s okay to feel frustrated or upset sometimes, but those feelings don’t have to define me or my day.
This plan became my roadmap to emotional balance, helping me navigate challenges with greater clarity and resilience.
Why Letting Go is the Ultimate Gift to Yourself
The more I let go, the more I noticed the benefits. I felt lighter, more joyful, and more connected to my family. I was no longer stuck in my head, replaying old frustrations or clinging to perfectionism. Instead, I was fully present, savoring the moments that truly mattered.
Letting go isn’t about pretending everything’s okay or ignoring your feelings. It’s about acknowledging what you’re holding onto, understanding it, and choosing to release it for your own well-being.
Your Turn: What Can You Let Go Of?
As the year winds down, take a moment to reflect on what you’re holding onto. Is it a grudge? A mistake? A perfectionist tendency? Whatever it is, ask yourself if it’s serving you—or if it’s time to let it go.
Grab a notebook or a journal, and write about it. Let the words flow without judgment, and see what comes up. You might be surprised by how much clarity and peace you find in the process.
Final Thoughts
Letting go isn’t a one-time act—it’s a practice, one that takes time and intention. But the rewards are worth it. You deserve peace, joy, and presence as you move into the new year.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to tune in to this week’s episode of The Have a Cup of Johanny Podcast, where I dive deeper into this topic and share more about my personal journey of letting go.
Here’s to ending the year lighter, freer, and more in tune with what truly matters.
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