Attachment: What Are You Holding On To?
Have you ever stopped to think about what you're attached to in your life? It could be things, ideas, perceptions, outcomes, a job, routines, or even people.
As I delve deeper into happiness and fulfillment, two concepts continually emerge from my studies of great philosophers, thinkers and spiritualists throughout history: gratitude and attachment. While I readily embrace gratitude, letting go of attachments remains a challenge for me.
Here's a simple, perhaps trivial, but personal example. I had a favorite pair of boots that I bought when I moved to Denver over six years ago. They were beautiful, black cowboy boots that fit perfectly and added just the right edge to various outfits, including a formal dress I once wore to a black-tie event. These boots weren’t just a fashion choice; they symbolized my bravery in leaving behind the familiar South for a new adventure out West. They represented my detachment from routines, expectations, and an environment I knew well, and my move to new people, possibilities, and the unknown.
Recently, while cleaning out my closet, I found the boots—still beautiful but well-worn and taking up prime closet space. At that moment, I realized I hadn't worn them in over a year. Living in a small space, I have a rule: if I haven't worn an item in over a year, it's time to donate it so someone else can enjoy it. A wave of momentary sadness washed over me. I could have broken my own rule and kept the boots, but doing so would mean not creating space for new shoes and possibly a new pair of boots.
This example might seem superficial at first glance, but if I asked you what you're attached to—what you're holding onto that no longer serves you—we might have a fascinating conversation.
Sometimes, being attached to things, routines, thoughts, specific outcomes, or even people can create our own clutter. This clutter and these attachments can keep us stuck, leaving no space for new experiences, growth, and opportunities.
Donating the boots ultimately became an act of freedom and joy. I still cherish the memories of wearing them and the strength they symbolized during a significant life change. However, they had become clutter in my closet and a small limiting factor in my life. By donating them, I immediately made space for new shoes, leading to new moments and memories.
What or who are you attached to that no longer serves your growth and evolution? What are you holding onto that no longer brings you happiness? Reflecting on detachment can be daunting and overwhelming, but this exercise can also be the key to sustained happiness and peace.
No matter where you are on your journey, love yourself because you are absolutely enough!
With gratitude and love,
Melisa