Monkey Trap Hack

Don’t be the monkey!

Let go!

There are several stories to relay a similar message about a monkey who sticks its hand through a hole (designed to trap him) to get food... its “prize” — but with the prize in its fist, the monkey cannot get its hand back out. The hole is too small for the monkey’s hand to pass through so long as it’s holding the prize. Because the monkey will not let go of its prize, it becomes trapped. The animal gives up its freedom to hold on to a small piece of food... it’s prize. It seems obvious that all the monkey needs to do is let go of the prize and it can escape. However, like many of us, it views the prize as its only possible option and is not willing to let go. As a result, the monkey is trapped. It loses its freedom.

I always encourage people to go after what’s for them. At the same time, there comes a time when you have to stop struggling for things that are not for you just because you want them and may see them right in front of you. Connect with your passion. Connect with your purpose. Mind you, you will have to work for what you want. But, you will not have to jeopardize your mental health for it! In my case, I had too many sleepless nights agonizing over what I wanted because I put so much time and energy into achieving it. It was one of my goals after all... my “prize.” I decided to implement the Stacey Abram’s approach. Who is that? What is that?... you may ask. Stacy Abrams received national acclaim as a candidate for governor in Georgia. She has been keeping an excel spreadsheet since she was 18 to track and assess her goals.

By applying this approach you can determine which goals no longer serve a purpose for you, those that may no longer align with your evolved growth. What does that lead to? Letting go. Don’t jeopardize your mental health by fighting, struggling and agonizing over things that do not fulfill your life’s purpose.

Let go!

Don’t be the monkey!