Letting go is the way to go

Ben is a 75-year-old client living near Aspen and has been skiing for decades. During our online training session, Ben said, “I’ve learned that living within your means extends beyond finances and applies to the physical as well.” He was referring to how he no longer skis the more challenging slopes, instead opting for the easier ones. No longer driven to conquer the toughest mountains, Ben feels safe on the moderate runs, appreciates the beautiful scenery, and is grateful he can still enjoy the sport—he’s living within his means.

By embracing his evolving perspectives and who is today, Ben is extending self-care and respect to himself. Time with his grandkids and active involvement with museums hold more value to him than the risks that come with aggressive skiing. By not clinging to a past identity, he’s spared inner conflict and lives in alignment with his authentic self.

I used to spend 10-12 hours a week in the gym building muscle, partially motivated to cover up feelings of “not-enoughness.” Combined with an accumulation of injuries, I was living beyond my means. By working on my self-acceptance and rehabilitating my joints, I let go of the past and am healthier in body and mind.

Closing the book on versions of ourselves that no longer serve us opens the door to greater fulfillment in the form of new interests, opportunities, people, and hobbies. Acceptance and peace with who you’re becoming also bring the added benefit of caring far less about others’ opinions of you.

Have your experiences of letting go of the old come naturally and been relatively peaceful, or did you have to wrestle some resistance into submission? I’d love to hear about your perspectives and lessons learned.