The Art of Letting Go: Stop Overthinking, Stop Negative Spirals, and Find Emotional Freedom (The Path to Calm Book 13)

by Nick Trenton

Chapter Takeaways ● Letting go is often used in psychology to describe the process of releasing attachment to something or someone. It may refer to letting go of negative thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that hold an individual back from reaching their full potential. ● The dichotomy of control is a central concept in Stoic philosophy that emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between things that are within one’s control and things that are beyond one’s control. ● One essential component of the Stoic philosophy's dichotomy of control involves developing an unwavering concentration on the present moment. This involves instructing one's mind to remain wholly involved in the current experience, rather than being sidetracked by concerns or remorse about the past, or concerns or anticipation for the future. ● Nonjudgmental thinking is the practice of acknowledging and identifying one's thoughts without affixing any characterizations or viewpoints to them. This mindset is crucial when it comes to letting go, as it empowers individuals to look at their experiences objectively and without any partiality. ● Psychological distancing, also called self-distancing, pertains to the capability of creating distance between oneself and the cause of intense emotions or conflict. This involves adopting a more impartial outlook on a circumstance and thinking about one's choices instead of being swiftly swayed by emotions or urges.