2017 is almost over and onto 2018 we go. Thank. Fucking. Goodness. (sort of, I’m still scared for what lies ahead).
It’s been a year full of ups, downs and many “What the shit is this?” moments. Are we living in the upside down, guys? I think we are living in the upside down.
Aside from the negativity that’s outside of our circle of control, it’s time to let go of the negative people, things and thoughts because we can control them. I know it’s much easier said than done to let toxic people go or break toxic habits, but it’s important to start somewhere by cutting off a toxic friendship or quitting an unhealthy habit, such as smoking. You have 365 days to start all over again; or you can start whenever. This list just seems appropriate for the new year.
Here are 10 things to leave behind in 2017:
1. Toxic people
If it’s an unhealthy relationship a toxic friendship or relative, it’s best to cut ties for your own well-being. I know it’s painful and it sucks, but it’s for the best in the long run.
2. Unhealthy habits
Have you been wanting to quit smoking or stop spending so much time on Facebook? The new year is as good of a time as any to break a bad habit.
3. Judgment
Okay, this one is difficult for me. It’s so hard to not judge people, unfortunately, it’s how our brains perceive someone or something that’s different. Each time you catch yourself judging someone else, remember that they are human just like you and the only thing that makes you different from one another is life experiences.
4. Self-loathing
Also a hard one for me. I’ve always had low self-esteem and it’s something I’ve been working on for years. Every time you say one negative thing [about yourself], you have to say positive things to make up for the negativity.
5. Living in the past
The past hinders our ability to enjoy the present. The past is just that, the past. There’s nothing we can change about what happened, whatever that may be. All we can do is live in the present and move forward. I know, easier than said done. It’s hard.
6. Saying “yes” to everything
If you don’t want to do something because it makes you uncomfortable or you simply don’t feel like it, just say no. Don’t want to go out with your friends that evening? Say no. Don’t want to buy that overpriced product from yet another MLM style business that your friend from high school is selling? Say no.
7. Living in the future
Living in the future makes it incredibly difficult to enjoy the present. If you stress about the future, you’re only making today suck.
8. The “friends” who flake on you all the time
Those people you make plans with and then they bail at the last second every single time? Yeah, let them go. They’re not worth it.
9. Simply thinking about your dreams instead of not taking steps to achieve them
If you want to go back to school, start planning to do just that. Want to make a career change? See what you have to do to get your foot in the door. It all starts with a single step, even if it’s as small as attending an informational session or taking a class.
10. Any racist/sexist/bigoted friend, relative or acquaintance
Know someone in your life who’s OK with Nazis, pedophiles, racism and sexism? Cut. Them. Off. None of those things are acceptable and you don’t need anyone in your life who believes that shit is OK. Let them go unless they learn develop an open mind.
If any of these are holding you back or weighing you down, the new year is as good of a time as any to leave them in the dust. Have a happy, healthy & beautiful start to 2018!