As we approach the end of the year, November holds a special significance.
It’s the perfect time to not only focus on our dreams and aspirations but also to reflect on what we no longer want in our lives.
When I sit down to write my wish lists and envision what I want to bring into my life, I can’t help but also identify what I need to let go of.
This includes habits, tendencies, and negative thought patterns that no longer serve me.
With time, I’ve gained the confidence to release things that used to consume me.
I’ve learned to prioritize my own happiness, letting go of the fear of judgment and the burden of constantly trying to please others.
I spent far too long trapped in a cycle of anxiety, constantly striving to meet everyone’s expectations.
But as I gained wisdom, grew through life experiences, and encountered significant events, I was able to break free from those shackles.
The best part?
You don’t have to wait until you’re older to tap into this wisdom.
It’s within your reach, waiting for you to embrace it.
All it takes is self-awareness and a willingness to make changes.
Are you ready to let go of what no longer serves you?
Here are some of the things I’ve let go of and continue to work on releasing, all in favor of becoming the best version of myself.
Thinking I Was Too Shy
I used to be quite a shy person socially, although I resented that term.
I never considered myself an introvert; I just needed to connect with someone deeply before I could express my true self.
I sometimes found large groups of people overwhelming, and it used to bother me immensely.
I wanted to come across as confident and self-assured but I worried that other people found me too quiet or boring.
I am now wise enough to understand that what some people may find too quiet or shy is my power.
I am an observer and an empathic listener, and I forge meaningful friendships with the right people.
I am proud to be my own unique self and I no longer brand myself shy or let myself be branded that way.
Worrying What Other People Think
This is such a common thing for most of us, and to some extent, there will always be people in our lives whose opinions matter.
But when it comes to worrying about what other people will think about the way I choose to live, I have long ago stopped caring.
I realized somewhere along the way that everyone’s opinion is formed with their own agenda.
Whether or not they realize it, their view of you and the way you choose to live is shaped and informed by what they believe to be right.
It might also be shaped by the way they were taught to value a certain lifestyle or what they think is an appropriate way to live.
None of that has anything to do with you and your dreams.
If your gut tells you to follow your heart and change career paths or move somewhere else, you should listen to that instinct and not base your decision on what your neighbor, high school friends, or cousins will think.
You can seek their advice or opinion, but at the end of the day, the final decision must come from you alone.
