Losses or Lessons
We’ve all experienced losses in our lives—whether it’s the passing of a beloved pet, the heartbreak of a relationship ending, or the disappointment of an unfulfilled dream. And while loss is inevitable, how we respond to it is entirely within our control. Some of us grieve deeply, feeling overwhelmed by sorrow, while others find strength and determination to grow from the experience.
I’ll never forget the joy my dog, Hector, brought into my life. He was a standard poodle–Airedale mix.
Hector and I went on countless bike rides—or rather, I biked while he ran for miles beside me. He was my loyal companion, always present, always devoted. Losing him was incredibly painful.
That experience taught me something profound: We always have a choice in how we respond to loss. Whether it’s the passing of a pet, the departure of someone we love, or the loss of a dream—we decide how we process and grow from it.
I used to react to loss with deep sadness, crying and feeling depressed for long periods. But over time, I’ve come to a new understanding—a shift in perspective.
A Shift in Perspective
One of the biggest lessons I learned came in my divorce. It was one of the hardest experiences I had. It emotionally broke me, but in time I realized something profound: **every experience is a lesson. **
Today I still allow myself to feel my emotions, but I no longer stay stuck in them. I honor my feelings, whether through talking with a Coach, friend, journal, meditate, or taking a walk, or sometimes all of the above. But I also remind myself that we are all on our own journey and not to beat up on myself. I have a choice of how I’m going to feel today.
Letting Go of Old Beliefs
For years, I lived by my parent’s beliefs, some of which didn’t serve me, nor were they true. So when that belief was shattered, I felt stuck, disappointed, and alone.
But here’s the truth: We are not responsible for another person’s actions. No one else can make us happy or sad—it’s always a choice.
I had to take a hard look at myself and my beliefs. I realized that the story I was telling myself—that my happiness depended on someone else—was simply not true. Yes, he walked out. But the meaning I attached to it was my own creation.
At the end of the day, I create my own happiness.
The Power of Choice
It all comes down to taking care of ourselves first and consciously choosing happiness.
Ask yourself:
How are you reacting to situations that don’t feel good?
Can you make a different choice—one that creates the possibility of happiness?
What steps can you take to shift your perspective today?
I’d love to hear how you are handling difficult situations. Feel free to share your thoughts with me.
