I know that when I push too hard and try to make things go my way, that’s when things usually fall apart. I’ve tried to use sheer willpower to make things change the way I want. But there’s a trap in that. The harder we push, the harder it is to be free. There’s a fine line between actively doing good and letting go.

Adult Children of Alcoholics tend to try to control things and make them go their way.

When you go about your day, ask yourself: Are you letting things go?

What does that mean?

Are you meddling in the lives of others? Are you trying to influence people to make them do what you want them to “for the better good.”

Are you stepping over other people’s boundaries and making decisions for your children or your spouse?

It’s easy to think we’re doing good, and we fall over into manipulation and control.

Even if we back off and we’re not trying to control those around us adversely, how are you treating yourself?

Are you overworking? Are you not getting enough sleep? Are you pushing, and pushing some more, the needle to try to do and be there for everyone?

That’s a recipe for disaster. We will fall and crash if we push ourselves too hard.

When I ran my first marathon, I remember the grueling schedule. About midway through my training, I had to fit in a half-marathon during a normal work day. I ran 13.1 miles starting at 4:30 a.m., came home, got ready for work, and then headed out the door for work. By the time I got home at 6 p.m., I was ready to collapse. But still, I pushed onward and wondered why I was grumpy and felt miserable.

We can push ourselves too hard physically, mentally, and emotionally. Why?

Because we want to succeed or achieve some greatness, but if we’re pushing ourselves too fast and hard, then what’s the point of the accomplishment if we’re only making ourselves sick in the process?

Ease up on your goals if you feel frayed and at wit’s end.

Please, be kind to yourself today.

Like what you’ve read? Be sure to check out my other posts in my Let Go and Be Free blog.