A Zen Buddhist monk advises to let go of control and focus on what's important by committing to observation.

Letting go can bring freedom and peace, says Shunmyo Masuno.

"How to Let Things Go" is a new book by Masuno, a Zen Buddhist monk, which provides guidance on releasing things beyond your control and focusing on what you can manage.

"Masuno wrote that many things in this world are beyond our control. Instead of letting them consume our thoughts and energy, it's better to focus on what we can accomplish in the present moment."

Here are five takeaways from Masuno's 99 tips for releasing control.

5 ways to relinquish control and focus on what matters

1. Aim to be more detached in relationships

It is important to strike a balance between being attentive and meddlesome, as Masuno wrote. When someone you care about is worried, the best course of action is often to simply listen and not offer any advice unless they specifically request it.

When you work on changing yourself, there's always a possibility that others may follow suit and facilitate progress.

It's better to observe than intervene in personal relationships, even if it's challenging. Masuno advises applying this practice to your children as well, as long as they're not in danger.

2. Try not to worry about every little thing

One theory suggests that the ability to forget is a survival instinct.

"By forgetting about trivial things, it's important to also prepare yourself for disappointments. Expectations can be managed, and this can help you maintain your composure," he wrote.

Before criticizing someone for selfishness, it's important to reflect on your own level of selfishness.

3. Be mindful of your reactions

"It is important to be discerning when seeking out new information for peace," Masuno wrote.

Not setting boundaries on the frequency in which you receive information doesn't necessarily mean that its accuracy is always dubious, and it may not be of little importance to you. However, it can potentially increase your anxiety.

Rewritten sentence: It's important to pause before sending a reply when receiving tough news or having conversations that can lead to negative feelings.

4. Avoid wasting your energy

What are you doing with your time and energy? If your life feels monotonous, consider making a small change each day, such as altering your diet or changing your work routine.

Make the most of the present moment as much as possible because "all we have is the now." Both triumphs and setbacks fade away into the past the instant they happen.

John F. Kennedy stated, "Life's law is change, and those who focus solely on the past or present will miss the future."

5. Remember that not everything is black or white

Every decision you make is the one you were meant to make because nothing is inherently good or bad; it all depends on your perspective.

Masuno wrote that if you will eventually reach your destination regardless of the option you select, the most important thing is to do your best with the choice you have made.

We can only focus on the present and transform our mistakes into learning experiences to avoid our anxieties from manifesting.

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