“We cannot realize profound joy in our lives if we demand the world gives us what we want.” It’s the first sentence in Step 8, “Embrace Surrender” from 12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness. I have often been asked which of my 12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness™ was most difficult for me. My answer is always the same, surrender. I know I’m not the only one. It’s hard to let go and trust that the Universe has your back, especially if you are making big moves. It sometimes feels easier to micro-manage your life, trying to control every detail to make sure nothing goes awry. This might show up as detailed routines and rituals, agitation, constant stress, or worry.

So, how can we lean in and surrender when life seems difficult? Here are my 5 tips:

1. Make time for meditation. If you follow my work, you know meditation is an ongoing theme. In my own life I have gone from meditating three times a day, to twice a week, to finally settling into a minimum once daily practice. Meditation creates space for you to access both inner and Divine wisdom. There are plenty of options to get started. Some of my favorites are from https://kadampa.org and https://chopra.com. You can access some that I’ve recorded at https://trishahjelroberts.com/resources.
2. Pray. Let the Universe, God, Buddha, Jesus, holy beings, or whomever you identify as your Divines source, know what you want. Make sure to pray for the highest good for everyone involved. In her talk, “The Universe Has Your Back,” #1 New York Times bestselling author, Gabby Bernstein recommends you ask these three questions when you pray:
   • What do you want me to do?
   • Where do you want me to go?
   • What would you have me say and to whom?
3. Practice what you preach. It can be easy to slip out of alignment in our lives. I once owned a fitness center franchise and found it so difficult to workout at my business with the constant interruptions from customers and staff that I was barely working out once or twice a week. This can happen to dentists who forget to floss, yoga instructors who don’t make time to practice, or even salespeople who don’t believe in their own product.
4. Get moving. Our bodies are designed for movement. The range of motion in the human body is unmatched by any other creature, whether it’s our berry-picking fingers or our hula-hooping hips. You may have even heard some say, “Sitting is the new smoking.” I have found that ideas flow along with our body’s energy, sometimes referred to as “chi” or “prana.” Practicing yoga, walking or running outside, riding your bicycle or practicing tai chi are all great ways to keep your body and your mind in the flow.
5. Document your intentions. Whether you use a vision board, a manifestation journal, or written affirmations. It’s important to document your vision, maintain your focus, and act upon it. Don’t get too attached to the outcome. You can plant the seeds and water your garden. Only the Universe can deliver the fruit.

Learning to live in a place of surrender can exponentially enhance the joy and meaning in your life. So, “Let go and let God.” Believe in a benevolent Universe. But don’t forget to own your side of the equation. Stay in the flow by engaging in the activities that make your intentions known and make you spiritually and physically ready to receive what you desire.

I wish you passion, purpose, and the realization of your fullest potential!