The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins was one of our favourite reads of the year. The message is clear, simple, and profound: you cannot control other people; you can only control yourself and your reactions to situations. Every time someone does or says something that triggers an emotional response in you, by mentally saying the words “Let Them” to yourself, something magical happens. You let go of the mental and emotional strain that comes from trying to change other people and you regain your peace.
Accepting that we have no control over—nor any responsibility for—other people’s actions and reactions is freeing. It allows us to use our energy and mental bandwidth for something we can control: ourselves and our own peace.
Your friends have organised an evening without you? Let them.
Your colleague takes credit for something you worked on? Let them.
Your mum is giving you the silent treatment? Let them.
When we let people be who they are, we allow the “Let Me” part of the theory to come into play. Let me organise the next evening out with my friends. Let me work hard at my job—not for other people to notice, but for my own satisfaction, regardless of who takes the credit. Let me set the right boundaries within my family, be compassionate, and be present with them.
When we let people be who they are, we unleash the beautiful person we want to be, we become more present, and we regain our inner peace.
If you’re vacationing to relax and reset, this could be the perfect read to help you unwind and prepare you to face the real world when you get back. It’s available from your usual outlets and there’s even a great podcast you could listen to on Spotify if that’s more your thing.
