Mia Zhang
Life’s too short for behaviors that hold you back. If you’re really serious about making the most of your time on this planet, there are some habits you need to kick to the curb.
These seven behaviors might seem like no big deal, but they’re actually robbing you of your potential. They’re the little thieves that steal away your joy, your success, and your personal growth.
Let’s jump in and start living our best lives, shall we?
1) Worrying about what others think
We all do it to some extent, it’s human nature. But when it starts to dictate your decisions and hold you back from what you really want, it becomes a problem.
This behavior can trap you in a cycle of doubt and indecision. It can keep you from pursuing your dreams, expressing your true feelings, or even just being your authentic self.
Let’s be real: it’s impossible to please everyone. And the energy you spend trying could be put towards things that truly matter to you.
2) Putting off your passions
For years, I had a passion for writing. But I kept shoving it aside, convincing myself that it wasn’t practical or that I wasn’t good enough.
I filled my time with other things – work, chores, mindless scrolling on social media. But every so often, I’d find myself gazing longingly at my dusty old notebook, the pages full of ideas and stories waiting to be told.
Finally, I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I made a decision to stop putting off my passion and start investing time in it. And let me tell you, it has made all the difference.
Now when I wake up in the morning, I’m excited to start the day. I feel fulfilled and motivated because I’m doing something I love.
3) Neglecting self-care
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks, although those can certainly be part of it. It’s about taking the time to look after your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Did you know the World Health Organization officially recognized burnout as a medical condition in 2019? Symptoms include energy depletion, increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of cynicism related to one’s work.
And guess what? One of the best ways to combat burnout is through self-care.
Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, meditating for a few minutes each day, or just ensuring you get enough sleep, self-care plays a critical role in maintaining our overall wellbeing.
4) Dwelling on past mistakes
We all make mistakes; it’s part of being human. However, dwelling on these past missteps can prevent you from moving forward and living your best life.
Ruminating over past errors doesn’t change what happened, but it can create a cycle of guilt and regret that’s hard to escape. It can also steal your present joy and future potential.
Instead of dwelling on your past, learn from it. Use your mistakes as stepping stones to improve and grow. Remember that each day is a new opportunity to make better choices.
5) Holding onto grudges
A few years back, I had a falling out with a close friend. Words were exchanged, feelings were hurt, and we stopped talking. The hurt turned into a grudge that I carried with me for years.
What I didn’t realize was how much this grudge was weighing me down. It was like a dark cloud hovering over me, casting a shadow on my happiness. Every time I thought of this person, I felt a twinge of anger and sadness.
One day, I decided to let it go. Not for them, but for me. And it wasn’t easy, but the moment I decided to forgive and move on was the moment I felt lighter.
6) Resisting change
Change is a part of life. It’s how we grow, learn, and evolve. Yet, many of us resist change because it takes us out of our comfort zone.
Resisting change can keep you stuck in unhealthy patterns or situations. It can prevent you from taking risks, pursuing new opportunities, or adapting to new circumstances that could enhance your life.
Remember, not all change is bad. Sometimes, the things we initially resist turn out to be the best things for us.
7) Living life on autopilot
The most important behavior to say goodbye to is living life on autopilot. When you’re just going through the motions, you’re not truly living. You’re merely existing.
Living on autopilot means missing out on the beauty of the present moment. It means neglecting your potential, your dreams, and the things that make you truly happy.
Life is too precious to be lived on autopilot. So switch off, tune in, and start truly living.
Final thoughts: It’s about choice
Each behavior we’ve explored isn’t inherently bad. In fact, they’re all perfectly human. But when they start to hinder your growth, steal your joy, or stand in the way of your dreams, it’s time for a change.
The philosopher Epictetus once said, “We are not disturbed by things, but by the views we take of them.” Perhaps saying goodbye to these behaviors isn’t about radical changes or forceful suppression.
So as you reflect on these seven behaviors, remember that you have the power to choose – choose growth over stagnation, forgiveness over grudges, presence over autopilot.
