With this new year beckoning ahead, I want to make one thing clear and give a few pieces of unsolicited advice: it’s okay to walk away from the things that aren’t meant for you. And no, I promise I’m not advocating quitting. I’m letting you know it’s okay to say no. It’s okay to walk away from the things that no longer serve you. If something in particular is already coming to mind in your head, let me ask you this: does the bad outweigh the good? In other words, is the negativity brought with it outweighing the positivity? If yes, it's time to say goodbye. *Spoiler, cheesiness ahead* You have one life only, and you should be filling it with only things that make you happy. Things that better you. Things that pull you forward, toward your hopes and goals. It makes sense to stick with what’s comfortable. But it lacks boldness to stick with the same ‘ole same ‘ole just because. Do things with purpose, or not at all. After all, this is YOUR life.
Recently, I’ve changed a lot about the way I make decisions. I’ve begun doing things not because I think I’m supposed to do or feel obligated to do, but things I want to do. It feels much better. I feel far more fulfilled. Trust me, I know it’s hard to make changes like this if you are a natural born people-pleaser. But if I’ve learned anything, it’s that sometimes it’s okay (and necessary) to be selfish. It’s alright to say no to something someone else wants you to do in order for you to do something YOU want to do. I am all for helping others and being a kindhearted person, but if you yourself don’t put you first then who will?
Sometimes it’s hard to say goodbye to the things that feel comfortable, may it be a relationship or maybe even a major. But committing to something that feels right and something that makes you proud is much more fulfilling. And, very much worth the sad goodbye. That may seem harsh but trust me when I say it holds true. Sticking around with something that is unfulfilling to you is downright unnecessary and is only dulling your happiness.
Instead of rambling on longer, I'll wrap up this P.S.A. with the point: Some things just aren’t meant for you. And that’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with that. Have the courage to say no to the things that aren't adding anything to your life anymore, even if it hurts a little bit. If you haven’t decided to already, it’s time to make this year your year. Grab 2017 by the horns, and make yourself the most important person in your life this year.
Sheetal Tadiparty
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