A new year means a clean slate and an opportunity to start fresh. Although this is true, it’s possible to make a change in your life anytime. Here is a list of things you should leave behind in 2017 (or anytime) so you can make 2018 a happy and healthy year.
1. Let go of comparing yourself to people on social media
It isn’t healthy to compare your own life to “perfect” pictures you see online. In times when social media plays such a large role in our lives, it’s important to remember that social media is not real life. What you see is not always what you get.
2. Cut off toxic people
You deserve a relationship that makes you happy and healthy. Let go of relationships that bring you down or leave you feeling unfulfilled. Whether this is a significant other or a friend, cutting off a toxic person can be extremely difficult. Sometimes, it can even feel impossible. Realize that it is okay to go your separate ways. Not all relationships are meant to go on forever. Remember that you deserve the same love you give to others. Focus on your healthy relationships and appreciate them.
3. Lose your fears
Life could be a lot easier if we stopped worrying so much, right? Face your fears by changing your viewpoint. Think about your fears and ask yourself, “Are these realistic?” and “What do you have to lose?” If your answer is “No” and “Nothing,” then go for it! It only takes one small step to make a change. Don’t hold yourself back! Change can be scary, but it can be amazing, too.
4. Stop those bad habits
Instead of only focusing on cutting off your bad habits, think about creating good habits, too. The most important step of breaking a bad habit is realizing that you have one. Be aware of what needs to change. Then, find a substitute. Replace your bad habit with a good one. For example, if you think you watch too much TV, try picking up a book instead. You’ll find yourself watching less TV and reading more!
5. Let go of grudges
Often times, grudges hurt you more than they hurt the other person. Grudges are painful to maintain because living in the past is harder than opening up to the future. Most of the time, we hold grudges because we never received the apology we thought we deserved from the person who wronged us. Acceptance is the first step to letting go of a grudge. Accepting what occurred can bring you to a place of peace and leaves a door for reconciliation in the future.
6. Put away your phone — even if it’s only for a little while.
Try leaving your phone at home and focus on the people who are in front of you. Your notifications can be checked later. Those people who matter are right in front of you and they won’t be there forever. Learn to live in the moment and appreciate the people you love a little more.
7. Get rid of things that don’t bring you happiness
Like I mentioned earlier, it can be really hard letting go of things in your life. No one wants to feel like they are giving up on something that has the potential to be important. But, there is a time you must realize when something is not benefiting you any longer. At this time, let go. When you move on and begin focusing on yourself and the things that bring you joy, you will prosper.
Change is scary, but change is good. Remember that you deserve happiness and letting go of the negative things in your life will bring you to that happiness.
