The idea that people are different than us and do things differently is great, until it happens.  How many times have your expectations of friends and family gotten crushed?  You and a family member agree to collaborate on a project and then you’re the only one working on it.  You remind them you need help, and still nothing.  What do you do?  This is when you let people “do them”.  This is better known as the “Let them” theory by Mel Robbins.  You get to decide whether you will continue the project alone or abandon it.  You choose to spend your energy there or conserve for something else.

If you’re trying to help a friend or family member do “better” and they don’t make the effort, or any changes at all, let it go.  You can’t make people want what you want for them.  Sometimes, people can’t see what you see for them.  Sometimes they see it and don’t want to do what needs to be done to get there.  It doesn’t matter.  You must let them be and keep getting up.  The only person you can change is yourself and that’s hard enough as it is. 

Even before “Let them”, this is something I’ve worked on over the years. I’m someone that likes to help others and it can be frustrating when you’re trying to help but your help doesn’t seem appreciated. Remind yourself that you don’t control people and can’t dictate to others what they choose for their lives. It will get easier with time and soon you’ll find yourself experiencing less frustration and more joy in relationships with people.