From a polarizing election, military conflicts and a Bears season filled with utter disappointment, 2024 was quite a year! Don't get me wrong, 2024 was filled with many amazing moments, but I'm ready to welcome the new year with hope for better things. The calendar's turn offers us all a fresh canvas and an opportunity to hone in on our growth and let go of things that deter us. As this next year unfolds, become the best version of yourself by saying goodbye to these five things that may be hindering your growth.
1. Seeking outside approval
How often do you look to others before making a personal or professional decision? This year, be confident in your choices and stop seeking outside approval. If you want to do something, do it. Who cares what your MIL or best friend thinks?
2. Neglecting your health
This year, I made a doctor, optometrist, and dentist appointment for every family member. Even our pets had multiple vet visits. So, when I recently came down with a 104 fever, I was shocked to realize that I had neglected to make any appointments for myself. This year, I will stop neglecting my physical and emotional health and prioritize them like my morning cup of coffee. I can't take care of my family's needs until I take care of mine first.
3. Holding on to bad relationships
If someone in your life brings you down instead of lifting you up, it's time to reconsider the relationship. Whether it's an intimate relationship, an old friendship or even a toxic family member, life is too short to spend time with those who bring out the worst in you.
4. Comparing yourself to others
Comparison is the killer of happiness. You're probably not comparing yourself to a celebrity but to the mom at school drop-off with impeccable style or one of your neighbors with a larger home. When we tally ourselves against others, it lifts us from the moment we are living and forces us to desire a moment in which we are not.
5. Not believing in yourself
How often do you think to yourself, "What gives me the right to do this? I have no idea what I'm doing." Maybe you suffer from impostor syndrome, the nagging fear of being found out as not being smart, talented, or experienced enough. It's time to let go of thoughts that you're not good enough. If you don't believe in yourself, who else will? You are stronger and smarter than you can ever imagine.
- Gabriella Garcia of Hinsdale is a contributing columnist. Readers can email her at [email protected].
