If you want to be genuinely happy in life, say goodbye to these 9 habits

Happiness isn’t always about doing more, sometimes it’s about letting go.

There are certain habits we hold onto, thinking they’re essential to our survival when they’re actually dragging us down.

Living a truly joyful life means bidding farewell to these burdensome behaviors.

In this article, I’m going to share the habits that you need to drop for a happier existence.

Let’s dive in and see how we can start shedding some of these happiness-hindering habits.

1) Worrying about the future

One of the biggest happiness killers is worrying about what’s yet to come.

We’ve all had those nights, lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, worrying about what tomorrow holds. But the truth is, no amount of worry will change the future. It only robs us of our present joy.

Living in the moment is key to a happy life. It allows us to enjoy the little things, appreciate the people around us and make the most of our current circumstances.

So if you really want to live a happier life, say goodbye to this habit of constant worry. It’s not easy, but it’s definitely worth it. Remember, the future will arrive regardless of how much we fret about it.

Let’s focus on doing our best in the present moment instead, which is a far more effective way to shape a better future.

2) Comparing yourself to others

Ah, the comparison trap – a habit that I personally struggled with for many years.

I used to scroll through social media, gazing at the perfect lives of others, and inevitably, I’d start feeling inadequate. My accomplishments seemed insignificant compared to the grand milestones posted by my peers. I was constantly battling with thoughts like “Why can’t my life be like theirs?” or “I wish I had what they have.”

But one day, it hit me. This comparison game was a never-ending cycle. There will always be someone who appears to be doing better or seems happier.

I realized that comparing myself to others was not only stealing my joy but also preventing me from appreciating my own journey.

So, I made a conscious decision to stop comparing and start celebrating my own achievements, no matter how small. And trust me, I’ve never been happier.

If you want to experience genuine happiness, it’s important to break free from the habit of comparing yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own path and progress.

3) Neglecting self-care

In a fast-paced world where productivity is often prioritized, taking time for self-care can seem like a luxury. But did you know that neglecting self-care can actually decrease your productivity?

Studies have shown that individuals who take time for regular self-care, whether that’s a relaxing bath, a morning run, or simply time to read a good book, are more productive and happier overall.

If you’re constantly pushing yourself without taking time to recharge, you’re not doing yourself any favors.

4) Holding onto grudges

Bitterness and resentment are heavy weights to carry around. They can cloud your mind, steal your peace, and prevent you from moving forward.

Holding onto grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick. In reality, you’re the one who suffers.

Forgiveness, on the other hand, is a powerful tool for healing. It doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing the harm done to you. Rather, it’s about letting go of the resentment for your own sake, so you can focus on your own growth and happiness.

If you want to be genuinely happy in life, it’s time to say goodbye to the habit of holding onto grudges. Embrace forgiveness and free yourself from the shackles of bitterness and resentment.

5) Overthinking

Overthinking can trap us in a cycle of ‘what ifs’ and ‘should haves’. It can paralyze us with indecision and prevent us from taking action.

We often overthink when we’re afraid of making mistakes. But the truth is, mistakes are part of life. They’re how we learn and grow.

Instead of getting stuck in your head, try to take action. Even if it’s a small step, it’s still progress.

If you want to be genuinely happy, it’s crucial to break free from the habit of overthinking. Life is happening right now, in the present moment, not in your head.

6) Chasing perfection

Perfection is an illusion, a mirage in the desert of reality. It’s a standard that no one can ever truly reach and yet, so many of us exhaust ourselves in its pursuit.

Chasing perfection can make us lose sight of who we truly are, as we strive to fit into an impossible mold. It can rob us of the simple joys and unique quirks that make life beautiful and personal.

In my own pursuit of happiness, I’ve learned that embracing imperfection, not only in myself but also in others and in life’s circumstances, is far more rewarding.

Embrace the beautifully imperfect journey of life. Celebrate your flaws and failures as part of what makes you uniquely you.

After all, it’s our imperfections that make us human, and our humanity that makes us beautiful.

7) Fear of failure

Failure can be terrifying. For a long time, I let this fear hold me back. I would avoid taking risks or trying new things, all because I was afraid of failing.

But one day, a failed business venture forced me to face my fear. It was painful and humbling, but it also taught me invaluable lessons. I learnt that failure doesn’t define me; it’s simply a part of the journey to success.

Since then, I’ve grown to see failure in a different light. It’s not something to be feared, but rather a stepping stone to learning and growth.

Embrace it as part of your journey and use it as fuel for growth. Remember, the only true failure is never trying at all.

8) Living in the past

The past can be a comforting place to dwell. It’s familiar, known and often filled with fond memories. However, living in the past can prevent us from fully experiencing the present and anticipating the future.

Letting go of the past doesn’t mean forgetting it. It simply means acknowledging it as a part of your story and choosing to move forward.

If you’re constantly looking back, you might miss the beauty right in front of you. So if you want to be genuinely happy, it’s time to say goodbye to the habit of living in the past.

After all, life is happening right now.

9) Seeking external validation

Happiness can never truly be found in the approval or praise of others. It’s an inside job.

When we rely on external validation to feel good about ourselves, we give others the power to dictate our self-worth.

The only validation you need is your own. You are enough, just as you are. Your worth isn’t determined by the opinions of others, but by your own beliefs about yourself.

If you want to be genuinely happy in life, say goodbye to the habit of seeking external validation.

You are unique, valuable and deserving of happiness, simply because you are you.

Embracing the journey

Happiness, it turns out, is not a destination but a way of traveling.

In the pursuit of happiness, it’s essential to understand that it’s not just about adding things to our lives; sometimes it’s about letting go. Letting go of habits that no longer serve us, that weigh us down, and prevent us from experiencing true joy.

Saying goodbye to these nine habits won’t necessarily be easy, but the journey towards genuine happiness rarely is. Remember, growth happens outside our comfort zones.

It’s also worth noting that happiness varies from person to person. What works for one may not work for another. It’s all about discovering what makes you feel fulfilled and content.

So as you move forward on your own path to happiness, remember this quote by Lao Tzu, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Your journey towards genuine happiness starts with the decision to let go of these habits.

Embrace the journey, seek growth over perfection, and remember: You are in control of your own happiness.