This summer I’ve felt disconnected from the things I usually enjoy. I’ve done many of them — running, swimming, hiking, foraging, camping, exploring new places, reading, relaxing in my hammock, connecting with friends. But, there’s been a veil of sorts blocking me from taking in the goodness that they represent.
And, I’ve felt an inner resistance to moving forward on some projects that I need to wrap up. This morning, I realized I’ve been waiting for someone to give me permission to do the things I love as well as the things I need to do. I’ve been waiting for someone else to agree that it’s ok to have fun and to agree that yes, it is time to get moving on my to-do list.
So, my new experiment is to give myself permission to do the things I want and need to do. I’m going to be so bold as to also give myself permission to enjoy doing them. I’m giving myself permission to create beauty around me for no other purpose than because it makes me happy.
I’m giving myself permission to leap into building a fort with my son even though I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m giving myself permission to notice the wonders of nature around me — the birds, insects, flowers, fruits of my garden. I’m giving myself permission to laugh out loud and act silly whenever I feel like it.
I’m giving myself permission to unapologetically be myself with all of my quirks on display. I’m giving myself permission to finish the house projects on my list or to drop them and hire them out instead. I’m giving myself permission to jump into my physical therapy school application with zeal.
I’m giving myself permission to receive all of the help that’s available to me instead of shirking it. I’m giving myself permission to set the boundaries I need to be equally loving to myself as I am to others. I’m giving myself permission to take breaks, to have unproductive days, to just be.
I’m giving myself permission to say no to the people and activities that drain me. I’m giving myself permission to let go of the ideas and beliefs that no longer serve me. I’m giving myself permission to own my strengths and talents and to share them in whatever ways I feel called to.
I’m giving myself permission to let go of others’ expectations of me. I’m giving myself permission to believe in myself and to be on my own side. I’m giving myself permission for all of the things I’ve been waiting for.
No one else is going to do it for me. It’s my job just like it’s yours. So, I invite you to also give yourself permission to do the things that make your life better.
What do you have to lose? Joanna Zaremba is a writer, yoga teacher, and movement and mindset coach. She helps her clients to trust themselves and their bodies. Joanna has lived in the Pikes Peak Region since 2011 and can be reached at joannazaremba@gmail.
com ..
