The Power of Letting Go (and Why Resistance Blocks Our Happiness)

It’s easier said than done, right? We humans have a funny habit of clinging to our old stories, past hurts, painful memories, or situations that didn’t go our way. We carry them around like emotional souvenirs. The truth is, letting go of that resistance is one of the biggest keys to opening the door to happiness.

Some people keep score of every mistake, flaw, or failure, while others turn their experiences into treasure, collecting moments of joy, gratitude, and growth. The difference? One small, mindful step at a time. One choice at a time. That’s what builds real, lasting happiness.

Our emotions, though, have a mind of their own like unpredictable bipolar weather. One moment it’s all sunshine and laughter, the next it’s stormy and gray. They rise and fall like waves. But here’s the good news: we actually have the power to choose how we respond. Sometimes, we embrace our flaws, breathe, and let things go. In those moments, inner peace shows up quietly. Other times, we resist what’s happening, replaying the same old mental movie until we’re exhausted.

Here’s a reminder: neither you nor anyone else is a “project” that needs fixing. There’s nothing wrong with anything. The uncomfortable moments, the people who trigger you, they’re simply reminders. Invitations to look a little deeper, release the energy that’s holding you back, and rewrite your story from a place of awareness, not pressure.

The more we resist what is, the less happy we become. Resistance drains your emotional energy and leaves your mental cup dry.

We all fall into those thoughts sometimes. “I’m not good enough,” “Why does this keep happening to me?” or “I should be further along by now.” Too emotional or not assertive. Too much failures or no success at all. But here’s the truth: life isn’t meant to be perfect. It’s meant to be in flow. Every up and down is shaping you into a wiser, stronger, and yes, happier version of yourself.

The lesson? External things such as people, achievements, relationships can’t be the primary source of your happiness. They never are and never last. When you depend on them, you end up constantly performing, striving, reaching for something outside yourself to feel full again. That’s exhausting. The real shift happens when you pause and ask yourself, Do I want to be happy or not? Once you say yes, keep that promise to yourself.

Happiness doesn’t come from anyone or anything, but from realizing it’s already within you. Of course, it’s not a one-time epiphany; it’s a daily decision. It’s a discipline you can learn easily by practicing. A muscle you build each time you choose to let go instead of holding on.

As Shakespeare might remind us, “To be or not to be?” Our time on this Earth is limited; why not embrace every moment and live to the fullest? So take a breath. Press pause. Notice what’s stirring in your mind. Then gently release the old stories that no longer serve you.

That’s awareness. That’s personal power. And that’s how letting go becomes the beginning of your new happier life.

Love,

Biriz

P.S: For more self-care and mindset shifts, please subscribe to monthly newsletter and download your FREE Mental Clarity Journal Prompt Guide.

©2025 by Biriz McGuire