Listen and Consider: The Let Them Theory

True story – I have control issues.

I know, I know.

This might not be surprising to anyone that knows me.

It is likely rooted in being a Type A personality and wanting to achieve.

And it works well in some instances of my life, and especially being a leader known for getting things done at the office and sometimes at home or in volunteer groups.

But I do acknowledge that it has not worked well in more cases than I would like to admit, particularly as my children become young adults. And, as I found myself feeling hurt by people in life over what were really small things in retrospect.

By trying to control the behaviors of those that I love and care about, I am demonstrating the opposite of what love is supposed to be.

And driving myself crazy at the same time.

A respected colleague of mine sent the Let Them theory podcast by Mel Robbins to me earlier this year, and it has changed my life for the better.

Both professionally and personally.

I encourage every FBF supporter to take a listen and then think about how you can apply in your own life.

https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-70/

Newsflash – what happens around us is NOT about us.

And most of it does not really matter.

The “Let Them” theory is about emotional freedom. Instead of wasting energy trying to control, correct, or convince others, Robbins encourages us to simply let people be who they are.

A new request for a project at work doesn’t align well with overall strategy?

Let them.

Husband isn’t great about making travel plans?

Who cares – let him.

Son doesn’t coordinate movie plans with his friends in advance?

Let him – he’ll learn.

Or he won’t.

But such is life.

You see people treating your child unfairly, but all involved are adults?

Let them.

Your child will learn their own way of coping and the amazing life skills of setting boundaries when needed.

The idea isn’t about being passive, it’s about protecting your peace.

When you stop micromanaging others’ choices, you create space to focus on your own growth, happiness, and boundaries.

It has been a hard but real lesson for me to understand that my own needs are more important than the needs of everyone around me.

And applying the Let Them theory has helped me tremendously to have drama free days in my life and be more present in my life both at work and at home.

Trust me.

Take 45 minutes for yourself to listen to the podcast and listen to it again and again when you need to – it will be worth your time.