Hey there 👋
If you’re here reading this, then welcome! Chances are, you’re already connected with me in some way—Mental Clarity is a growing, close-knit community, after all. For those who don’t know me, I’m Grant Finlay, founder of Mental Clarity, a success coaching business for entrepreneurs based in Glasgow. Now, let’s dive into today’s post.
The other day, I had a realisation that stopped me in my tracks while following Google Maps in my car. I thought, What would it feel like to navigate this on my own? I wondered how I’d manage without relying on that pre-determined route. Sure, it wouldn’t be the fastest or most optimised path, but it would be my path, shaped by my own decisions, little detours, and moments of discovery.
That idea stayed with me. How often do we give away control of our lives to routines, technologies, or expectations that others set for us? The more I reflected, the more I realised just how much I’d let “maps” dictate my choices and actions. So, I began shifting. I started saying “no” to things that didn’t align with my vision, creating some breathing room from unnecessary obligations and reclaiming my mental space.
But here’s what I noticed: the “no’s” weren’t as freeing as I thought they’d be. It felt more like pushing against something rather than letting go. When we forcefully take back control, we often end up struggling with the very world we’re trying to harmonise with. It’s like battling the current when we could just float and let the river guide us.
What I’ve come to understand now is that it’s not about rejecting paths or clinging to control but about choosing routes—and even detours—that feel aligned with joy, curiosity, and trust. I can still use Google Maps, or I can rely on my own sense of direction, as long as the choice comes from a place of peace, not force.
So that’s my takeaway: real freedom lies in mindful choices. Whether on the mapped route or veering off into the unknown, as long as I stay connected to the journey and enjoy the ride, I might just sleep a little better tonight.
Thanks for reading,
Grant