I came across a Facebook Memory recently. It was a reposted quote from Amy Poehler, “There’s power in looking silly and not caring that you do.” Most of us, can get behind this statement and understand the meaning. Even if we can’t fully embrace it, we may have flashes of inspired moments daring ourselves to just let go, but there is also another side of that tends to be a lot louder, shouting at you, “WAIT! WAIT! WAIT A MINUTE!” Forcing you to slow down and think this out carefully before you go and make a complete fool of yourself.
What is it that you need to let go of today? Is it wondering what that cute guy, or girl, might think of you? Is it fear that people will think you’re weird, or won’t like you? Is it that everyone will finally figure you out for the imposter, you fear, you are?
What are the consequences of caring so greatly about what others think of you? Are you overcome with anxiety and doubt? Do you carefully curate your interactions and responses to others hoping to avoid ridicule or rejection? Are you avoiding living a life of value?
The National Institute of Health reports that the physical implications of stress and worry can include, disturbances to the “immune, digestive, cardiovascular, sleep, and reproductive systems. Some people may experience mainly digestive symptoms, while others may have headaches, sleeplessness, sadness, anger, or irritability. Over time, continued strain on your body from stress may contribute to serious health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other illnesses...” Wow! That’s some serious stuff. Not only does the fear of negative evaluation hold you back from living your life, taking risks, and being spontaneous, but it can cause serious health risks.
So how do you let go? You don’t have to be the court jester, the most boisterous or even the life of the party (Unless that’s your thing).
But you can let go in small and meaningful ways by:
saying yes without mulling over the decision ad nauseum; allowing for more freedom in your life choices.
reducing, or eliminate, planning your conversations and how to respond to every possible scenario. This alone frees up mental and emotional time and space, reduces the burden of feeling the need to be prepared, brings you out of negative anticipation and into the present moment of your life.
intentionally injecting levity and silliness (have a dance party or spontaneous solo karaoke moment)
playing a practical joke on someone
the list of possibilities is endless…
Whatever you choose to do, challenge yourself to make choices based on what is important to you and not based on avoiding discomfort.
Saharah Shrout, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of OCD & Anxiety Treatment of Houston. For more information, email saharah@oaththerapy.com or (281)665-0888.