Even though it seems as if 2017 just started, it is very quickly approaching its end. For some that might be a good thing. Whether it’s been on the political stage, in the humanitarian sphere or in the private life 2017 certainly had its fair share of struggles. Others might be sad because this year has been a year full of new opportunities, exciting life events, and positive changes.

Regardless of what kind of year you’ve had, with the New Year fast approaching, it is time to think about the next chapter.

Many people make resolutions of how they will improve themselves, their well-being and their overall lives starting January 1^st. Unfortunately, too many times these thoughts get lost throughout the year or life simply gets in the way. So why don’t we start to make it a habit to leave things behind in the old year so that we are already starting off fresh come January. Whatever baggage you decide to ditch is one less worry.

Of course, a list of what to leave behind will look different for everyone but in general there are some things we all could change. Here are some things you might want to consider letting go off.

Self-doubt:

All of us have reached a moment in our lives where we were doubting ourselves. Whether it would be in a professional work environment, in school, in our love lives, or anything else really, everyone has questioned themselves. Questioning if you are good enough, doing the right thing or whatever the case may be can be very damaging for yourself.

Don’t get me wrong. Taking time to take a step back and reflect on your life is incredibly important. That’s not what I am talking about though.

I am talking about that little nagging voice in your head that keeps telling you are not worthy because you aren’t good enough. You are good enough! Learn to love yourself and leave those doubts in 2017.

Apathy:

It seems that every day we are hit with more tragic news. There is so much turmoil going on in the world, and on top of that, you are just trying to keep your head above water in your own life.

We have all been there at one point or another.

All of this can be incredibly overwhelming and force us to react indifferently. Don’t. While it might be painful at times, always go with compassion through the world. You don’t know the story of the person sitting next to you on your morning commute, or the stranger that bumped into you as you are making your way to work.

Try to act with empathy to those around you. You might experience things you never thought possible. Always keep in mind, what goes around comes back around.

The past:

This could be anything. Whatever this means to you, let it go. Don't hold on to anger, sadness, or hurt feelings. It might be a friendship that has become too toxic, a fight with one of your family members, or some bad habits that have tied you down. Leave them behind in 2017.

What's the point of bringing the past with you if there is no place in the future for it? I am not saying it's easy to let go of things that have had a deep impact on you. Sometimes there is nothing else we can do other than accepting it and moving on.

Trust me on this though, once you do decide to leave the past in the past you will live much more carefree. And what better way to start a new year than that?