As the new year approaches, we start reflecting on the year that has passed, and tend to look forward to (or fear) the year ahead. Here 6 things to quit in 2019, whether you believe in making New Year Resolutions or not.
1. Fearing change
The first thing to quit is fearing change. Not only is change inevitable, it is a very valuable thing in your life. Change lets us see and explore new opportunities; to see things differently; to even live a new life.
We fear change because we fear losing out on the good things we already have. Life flows like a river, always changing. If you try to stay in one place for too long you are going to drown.
Embrace change. Store all the good experiences and memories in your experience bank, and acknowledge that those experiences have been had. Allow yourself to let these go to provide space for new opportunities.
2. Being afraid to be different
The big secret here is that a) we are all different to each other, and b) we all fear being different from others. It’s quite silly actually. There isn’t a need to be different just for the sake of being different, but on the other hand, we should not be afraid to be who we, no matter how different that may seem. We are who we are, and we will be who we will be as we explore our inner selves. Enjoy it – lose the fear.
3. Sacrificing your happiness for others
It’s amazing how much of our life is dictated by the expectations of others. The clothes we wear, the cars we drive, and even the way we interact with other people. We live our lives for others. Have you ever stopped to think which parts of our life we live for ourselves?
Do what makes you happy, now and in the long term. Spend your money on you, and save your money for your future.
4. Trying to be perfect
Let’s face it – it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to be perfect. While doing things right and striving for perfection are great ideals, don’t get caught up in the illusion that perfection is achievable. All this does is creates disappointment and dissatisfaction.
Always always always try your best. But once you know you tried your best, be happy with the results, while learning from any mistakes along the way. Keep the 80/20 rule in mind: spend most of your time achieving your goals 80% of the way; don’t waste 80% of the time trying to achieve the last 20%.
5. Being indecisive
Quit being indecisive. Write down the top 5 things that you haven’t yet come to a decision on. Set a goal to gather as much information as possible over the next week or two, and then commit to making a final decision at the end of the time period. Even if you couldn’t get all the info that you wanted, make a decision – it will be better than having it hang over you into the new year.
I often find myself trying to optimise every decision I make, even what to eat and wear. Then I realise that it really doesn’t matter. For example, who cares if you decide on a crappy restaurant. It will soon be forgotten. Rather spend your time on more important things, and let the small things go. Small decisions really clutter your life.
6. Trying to please everyone
Put yourself first for a change. Now I’m not saying you should turn into a selfish bastard who kicks everyone else to the side. No, you can still be that amazing helpful person. But put your happiness first. What makes you happy and what distresses you? Remove from your life things that cause distress and anxiety. Make room for more happiness.
Do you have other things that we should quit in 2019?
Add them in the comments below. You can also have a look at 6 New Year Resolutions that add value to your life.