By Jennifer Garza

When we attempt to manifest positives in our lives, sometimes we forget to release these intentions into the care of the Universe. We try to force things to happen instead of surrendering. We plan and work toward a goal diligently and have expectations regarding the outcome. We force things that don’t fit instead of having faith that what we desire will come to us.

It’s beneficial to plan, but it’s even more valuable to realize that regardless of whether or not you reach your intended goal, you are learning lessons regarding your life path. Sometimes what you choose is not in line with your higher purpose. But each step on your journey contains a valuable lesson to learn. Fighting with those lessons will only cause disappointment and feelings of failure and loss.

Sometimes, in order to move forward, you have to surrender. The connotation of surrender involves giving up, abandoning, or resigning yourself. The original translation of the Old French word is to up (sur) redre (render), or to render up. Surrendering is about letting go of control and surrendering to a Higher Power.

This is much different than giving up. Giving up is about feeling that you are not smart enough or worthy of something you desire, so you let it go out of fear. When you surrender, you let go of the fear that you will not achieve what you desire, and instead, allow life in.

Surrendering allows the Law of Attraction to work its magic. So how do you begin to surrender?

• Set your intention and then let it go. Send positive vibrations into the Universe daily and feel as if you have already achieved your desire. Work toward what you desire with resolve, but if too many roadblocks occur, recognize this may not be right path. Signals such as heightened stress, frustration, and a feeling you’re going in circles mean it may be time to move on. Pay attention to chance meetings or coincidences. People are often messengers pointing out the right path. Accept these opportunities as a gift.
• Develop a mantra regarding faith. Work to develop the sense that whatever comes into your life is there for a reason. Meditate using the mantra daily.
• Accept that disappointments occur for a reason. Have faith that an opportunity did not pan out because there is something better coming your way. If lessons present themselves regarding your disappointment, learn from them.

Jennifer Garza, M.S., has a master of science in counseling and psychology. She is a former therapist and has taught life enhancement classes at venues including college campuses, state conferences and prisons. She is the author of the inspiration journal “365 Days to Happiness: Use Your Strengths, Thoughts, and Dreams to Manifest a New Life.” Garza has been featured in Natural Health magazine, AOL, BusinessInsider.com, Young Entrepreneur.com, and on FTNS radio. Visit her website at www.authorjennifergarza.com or connect with her.