Do you remember permission slips? I remember in elementary school we had to have a permission slip to go on field trips and at some schools even to be out in the hall to use the bathroom! As kids, we were dependent on and controlled by the adults in our lives. It seems like we could hardly do anything without getting “permission”. The thought of that causes my breathing to constrict. Not being able to freely make choices and decisions is soul-suffocating. I don’t know about you but sometimes I feel like I am still waiting for “permission” to do things. It is probably some form of procrastination but whatever it is…I think it is time to start granting ourselves permission to do things we have been wanting to do and have been DENYING instead of GRANTING!!!!
Now that I have brought this to your attention…what are some things you have been denying yourself? What is the first thing that comes to your mind? I recommend giving this some thought and if you are so inclined…use this question as a journal prompt. You can even ask it in two different ways.
1. What would I like to give myself permission to do, be or have?
2. What have I been denying myself permission to do, be or have?
Here are some ideas to help get you started. Keep in mind these “things” may not necessarily be “things”. Some of them may be things that money can’t buy.
- Going on a vacation you’ve always dreamed of.
- Buying your dream car instead of the practical one.
- Loving yourself unconditionally.
- Try a new haircut or new hair color or, while you’re at it maybe both!
- Forgive yourself or ask someone to forgive you.
- Lose the extra weight.
- Allow love in.
- Try a new hobby or sport. Painting? Sculpting? Pickleball?
- Wear a hat. Something you admire others have the guts to do.
- Have you dreamed of getting a tattoo but were afraid of what people might think?
- Go skydiving? Skiing?
- ___________________________________fill in the blank.
Now that you have granted yourself permission, the next step is to take action. For example: If you have decided to try a new haircut or color you can book a consultation with a hair stylist. If you don’t have a hairstylist, find one. You can also start by looking at styles and colors you like (if you don’t already know but I bet you have some idea, teehee). Baby steps are fine at this point. I realize this can be a new and scary thought. However, don’t overthink it and go back to procrastination. Permission is only as good as you you actually do it. I know you are hearing me right now. Smile.
And, in case you would like to formally give yourself permission, here is a printable pdf. that you can use.
Cheers to Permission!
Suzi