Surrender, it’s not just a war strategy anymore

Hello Friends,

My name is Mel and I’m a recovering control freak and perfectionist. Gasp! Yes, I can hear some of you gasping along with me and not wanting to admit that you suffer from this affliction as well.

Expressions such as “let go and let flow; take it easy; let nature take it’s course; or patience is a virtue” used to make my blood boil. After much self reflection and change, I can now understand and appreciate these simple messages.

Let’s play a word game – say the following words and then take a moment to see how they make you feel:

Group A: control, dominate, flawless, superiority

Group B: cooperation, freedom, curious, solidarity

For me, the words in Group A made me feel pressured, calculating and tired. The words in Group B made me feel relaxed, encouraged and a sense of belonging. How did they make you feel?

I don’t believe life is meant to be hard but it can feel that way when we insist that it has to be “my way or the highway; if I want something done right I have to do it myself; I don’t have time to teach someone how to do something; or they’re all idiots.” Gasp again!

Take a moment to look around you – you are not alone. The world is abundant with people and resources.

Mel’s Two Cents: I invite you to surrender your need to control and perfect. Flaws can be interesting and sometimes render an item a valuable rarity. Allow others unique talents to compliment yours. Resist the urge to insist that you know best or it has to be only one particular way. And for goodness sake, please remember to stop every so often to take deep, cleansing and refreshing breaths. I believe that you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by some rising to the occasion and others showing up to make your life easier; then allow yourself to accept the help and feel the love.

Remember: I love and accept myself just as I am. Happy surrendering!

Until next time.

Mel