5 Things to Let Go of to Be Happy
Everyone has their own definition of happiness. What makes me happy might be different from what makes you happy. However, most people find that letting go of something that isn’t worth your time or energy, can help pave the way to happiness. That’s easier said than done, though, because letting go of something (or someone) can be the most challenging and difficult part of the process. Yet, letting go can lift a weight off our shoulders. It can remove some of the burden or pain we’ve been harboring. It can shed a brighter light on our perspectives. Letting go can give us peace.
Based on my own experiences and also helping others find their own happiness, I have come up with 5 things you need to let go of to be happy.
5 Things to Let Go of to Be Happy
- A Chapter in Your Life
Many people find comfort in dwelling in the past because they use it as an excuse for not moving forward. I don’t mean for it to sound harsh – but that’s a reality. We all have something that haunts us. Whether it be a relationship, a heartache, a bad career move, or regret – whatever it may be – our demons replay that particular event on loop. It’s time to let that chapter close and turn to a new page. We have to allow ourselves forgiveness and let go of the past. Otherwise, we might never be able to completely move on.
- Holding in Your Feelings
Expressing our feelings doesn’t always come easy. For some, the idea of telling someone how we feel can make us anxious – nauseated, even. Others, just don’t like confrontation. Sometimes, we hold in our feelings because we don’t want to face judgement or look vulnerable. Or perhaps we think no one really cares to hear our problems. We all have our reasons. So, one alternative to letting our thoughts and feelings out is writing it in a journal. It’s a judgement-free zone where you can write down anything you want. This can help us reduce stress because we are able to openly express our deepest feelings. It gives us an opportunity to release emotions we didn’t realize we had. Journaling is a great step to slowly letting go. Give it a try and write it out.
- A Negative Mindset
In my last post, I told you about why I decided to say “it’s over” to a negative mindset. I wanted to be the kind of role model my children deserve to have because being an angry grouch wasn’t serving a purpose, to me or them. Letting go of a negative mindset is more than just saying, “I can…” It’s about setting good intentions each day; looking at life in a different lens; purposely being kinder to people we meet, but most importantly kinder to ourselves. We need to set the example. If we want to live a better life, then we should be focusing on what’s important.
- A Toxic Relationship with Yourself or Someone Else
Relationships give us all kinds of feelings. It brings us joy, love, passion, and comfort. It can also bring us anger, fear, depression, and distress. It’s an emotional roller-coaster and, sometimes, we don’t know when it’s time to get off. It’s important for us to recognize when the relationship has run its course. When it’s time to let go and part ways – especially when the relationship is a unhealthy, unhappy, or abusive one (There will be another post on this topic soon).
While it’s normal to have disagreements or experience some tough times, it is not normal to stay in a relationship because of fear. Whether it be the fear of leaving because of abuse or the fear of being alone, neither one is a good reason to stay in a relationship.
Another kind of toxic relationship – one of the worst kind – is the one you have with yourself. Negative self-talk is common because we are our own worst critics. Sometimes our high expectations can make us turn on ourselves which prevents us from becoming our own best version. The relationship you have with yourself is the one you need to make a priority. We must learn to treat ourselves with respect and kindness. Be gentle with your mind and soul because it’s the only one you have.
- Grudges
Holding a grudge also holds resentment and anger which can heavily impact your present and future relationships. Ask yourself if it is worth the time and energy. Grudges drain our mind and make us feel stressed, which can take a toll on our health. Reflect on the reason why you are holding on to this grudge and find a way to address your feelings so that you can let it go.
You have a right to be happy so, what are you waiting for?