Listen to the AI-generated audio version of this article. (Beta)
This exercise helps you become more aware of your need for control and invites you to experience something new in your daily life — a shift from pressure to trust, from tension to ease.
1. Morning Preparation: Pause and Reflect
Take a few quiet minutes at the beginning of your day to reflect. What situation today might challenge your sense of control? Maybe a meeting, an unclear task, or a conversation with someone who tends to act spontaneously?
Ask yourself:
What exactly makes me uncomfortable about this?
What do I fear might happen if I don’t stay in control?
Often, hidden beliefs will surface — thoughts like:
“If I don’t do it, it won’t be done right.”
“I can’t afford to make mistakes.”
“I need to stay on top of everything to prove my worth.”
Notice these thoughts without judging them. Just recognizing them is a powerful step.
2. A New Inner Statement: Set an Intention
Now choose a more helpful thought — one that can guide you through the day. For example:
“I can let go without losing responsibility.”
“Not everything is in my hands — and that’s okay.”
“I create space for growth, not for perfection.”
Write this statement down — on a note, in your phone, or just keep it in mind. Let it be your inner anchor throughout the day.
3. Practice During the Day: Let Go, Gently
As your day unfolds, you’ll notice moments when your control instinct kicks in. In these moments, pause and ask yourself:
Do I really need to step in right now?
What happens if I don’t?
Can I trust someone else — or let the situation unfold naturally?
Choose one moment today to intentionally let go — even just a little. Let someone else decide, allow a process to happen without interference, or resist the urge to “perfect” something.
As you do this, observe your inner reactions: physically, emotionally, mentally. What does it feel like to not take over?
4. Evening Reflection: Look Back with Kindness
At the end of the day, take a few minutes to check in:
What did I let go of today — and how did it feel?
Was there a surprising outcome?
Was anything less dramatic than I had feared?
Did something go even better because I stepped back?
This kind of reflection strengthens your ability to trust — in yourself, in others, and in what can grow when you’re not trying to control everything.
