Most people trying to "let go" of something get stuck because they're releasing the wrong thing. They try to quit a habit when the real problem is a belief underneath it. Here's a quick way to find the actual target.

The test: Finish this sentence 5 times, fast, without overthinking:

"I can't let go of _ because if I did, then _."

Example:

• "I can't let go of this relationship because if I did, then I'd be alone."

• "I can't let go of overworking because if I did, then I'd feel worthless."

• "I can't let go of the grudge because if I did, then it would mean what they did was okay."

Do this 5 times about whatever's weighing on you right now. Don't edit yourself — write the first thing that comes.

Why it works: The first half of each sentence is the habit, relationship, or thought loop you think is the problem. The second half — the "if I did, then ___" — is almost always the real thing you're protecting. That's your actual release target. You can't let go of a habit by white-knuckling it. You let go by addressing the fear underneath it.

Once you have your 5 answers, pick the one that made you flinch a little when you wrote it. That's the one worth working on first.

Curious what came up for people — drop one of your sentences below if you're comfortable sharing.