Lessons learned from letting go
December 6, 2017
By Brian Maynor
As 2017 draws to a close and we celebrate a season of giving, now is the perfect time to reflect on the past year, particularly what we’ve had to let go.
Whether it’s personal or professional, loss is part of life that comes in all shapes and sizes. From the major loss of a loved one to letting go of a dream, there are lessons we can learn from each one; no matter how much it may hurt in the moment. Some people call them silver linings while others call them lifesavers.
Here are some of those lessons:
1. Every day matters. After the loss of a loved one, our perspective on the importance of every day comes into focus a little more, but as life moves on that focus tends to shift back to the minutia of life. While life is hectic and all consuming, we should always take a moment to enjoy it. Love the ordinary and mundane, but never let it stop you from loving, and living, in the moment.
2. Take risks. Dreams don’t come true unless you work for them, which mean taking risks. Think about how many dreams have been let go of simply because we weren’t willing to work for them, or take a chance. It’s sad really, because nothing was stopping us but ourselves. Don’t let it happen to another dream. Stop waiting, second-guessing or being afraid of what could happen. We can’t fly without being brave enough to jump.
3. Make your own rules. This is our life, so why not make our own rules? While society does impose some restrictions, there are a lot more opportunities to be unicorns than sheep. We give up and let go of a lot of what makes us unique and special by going through life confined and restrained to only following the status quo. Maybe it’s time to let go of the life the world tells us to live and embrace the one that reflects who we truly are instead.
4. Pain and joy don’t happen in a vacuum. A funny thing about emotions is that no matter how far apart they are, they can happen simultaneously. Think about joy and sadness. Two polar opposite emotions that we can actually feel at the same time. It can be overwhelming. The important thing to remember is that our thoughts heavily influence our emotions. Instead of focusing on the pain of loss or letting something go, try to think about the possibilities waiting to replace it.
Loss has a profound impact on our lives, no matter what its shape or size, but just as profound is how we choose to deal with it. We can either let the loss be a constant source of pain or resentment or we can use it as a reminder and motivation to enjoy and make the most of every day. It’s up to us.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
