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Let Them Theory: Taking Back Control Without Taking Over
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Let Them Theory: Taking Back Control Without Taking Over

This week at The Forum, Clare explored Mel Robbins’ “Let Them Theory” — a way to release control, reduce stress, and regain emotional clarity.

This week’s talk was centred around Mel Robbins’ viral concept known as the Let Them Theory — a mindset that helps reduce unnecessary stress and emotional entanglement by simply stepping back. Rather than trying to fix, control or manipulate people and situations, Robbins encourages us to respond with two simple words: “Let them.”

The speaker shared personal stories and practical reflections from reading the book, trying the theory in daily life, and how it helped reframe emotional triggers, arguments, stressors, and interpersonal disappointments.

The talk highlighted how modern life can feel overwhelming — work demands, family pressures, social comparison, and relationship conflict. We often try to regain control through overthinking, people-pleasing, or anger — and it only drains us further. “Let them” offers a stopgap — a moment to pause before we spiral.

But this isn’t about passivity. In part two of the talk, the focus shifted to “Let me.” If “let them” is about releasing control, “let me” is about reclaiming agency. Let me choose my reaction. Let me set boundaries. Let me decide who I want to be in the middle of chaos.

Examples were drawn from friendships, romantic relationships, and personal setbacks. The conclusion reminded us that the most important relationship we have is with ourselves — and learning to both let them and let me is a path to personal peace and empowerment.

Notable quotes:

Media used in the talk:

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