Here in the United States, we are celebrating the Fourth of July this weekend. It’s the anniversary of the day the American colonies declared that they were no longer willing to accept England’s power over them. For most of us, it’s something like a barbecue or picnic, some fireworks, maybe a day off work and some vague appreciation for this country of ours existing. This year, I’d like to challenge you to think about Independence Day just a tiny bit differently, and make it a little more personal.
What is something in your past that you have freed yourself from?
Debt? Memories? A toxic relationship?
Savor what no longer casts a shadow over your life, because you identified the problem, and found a way to make it stop bothering you. Maybe you set a goal, worked hard to achieve it, and your prize was freedom. Maybe you learned to let go on your end, and discovered that the other side was already halfway out the door. Maybe you stood up and drew a line, and said no more, never again. Whatever it was, you struggled, then you achieved your escape.
What is something that burdens you today, that you can get away from?
A source of chronic pain? A stressful life situation? Being stuck in a place, literally or figuratively, you don’t really want to be?
Then take the day that is devoted to celebrating independence and figure out what you need to do move on, to not be bogged down by them anymore, to walk away from them and towards something that brings you joy. It could be a savings plan and budget. A commitment to therapy or journaling or meditation. A determination to stop allowing a boundary to be smudged and to start defending it consistently instead. Canceling a membership or standing get-together, breaking up, divorcing.
Because being on your own, without that millstone around your neck anymore? That can be the winning end game. Now go get it.
