Do you have things holding you back in life? Perhaps it’s time to set a goal to release that baggage before your next birthday.
“What was so interesting is that he had been influenced, yet he was completely unaware. And he wasn’t just imitating others, he was being different at the same time. When do people act similarly to others and when do they act differently? And how does this all happen without us realizing it?” – Jonah Berger, Professor at the University of Pennsylvania
In the preceding quotation, Professor Berger refers to a D.C. lawyer friend of his who bought a new BMW. Prior to purchasing his vehicle, the lawyer was critical of his fellow attorneys who all bought BMWs to “show they’ve made it.” Perplexed, Berger pointed out that the lawyer had just done the same.
“When I pointed out that he had just bought one, and so he was just like the rest of them, he argued that he was different and hadn’t been influenced. When I asked why, he said that while they bought gray BMWs, he had bought a blue one.”
The point that Berger makes is that hidden forces influence us. Forces that shape our attitudes and behaviors, even our individual capacity for reasoning and thinking. The lesson is that we too often operate in “auto-pilot mode.” We cede control of our thoughts to impulses and whims.
When cognizance is replaced with impulse, our mind is susceptible to irrational (often negative) thoughts. We can “take back the controls” and redirect the mind when we realize this. And we can let go of the things that have hurt our mental well-being.
Here are 25 things to let go of before your next birthday (and you can do it!)
1. Let go of thinking, “It’s too late…”
It’s never too late. Plan and work hard at what you enjoy. Forget about the time.
2. Let go of anxieties about the future
Buddha said it perfectly “Concentrate the mind on the present moment.” Control what you can and seek a happy future.
3. Let go of envy and jealousy before your next birthday
Envy and jealousy is toxic thinking – don’t do it.
4. Let go of unresolved anger
Seek a solution for any unresolved anger. Meditation works wonders.
5. Let go of making excuses
We all engage in excuse-making once in a while, and we all need to let go of this behavior.
6. Let go of your fascination with “stuff”
Have hobbies and enjoy them, but don’t become obsessed with material goods.
7. Let go of the fear of speaking your mind
Be upfront, honest, and polite. When you combine the three, you’ll have no troubles speaking your mind.
8. Let go of your financial worries before your next birthday
We all need some cash to live. If you’ve got an income, a roof, and some food – you’re doing alright. Don’t let money dictate your life.
9. Let go of obsessive scheduling
Some people love to schedule, and that’s cool. If keeping a schedule is causing you to flip out, however, it may be worth implementing a bit of flexibility when possible.
10. Let go of being who “they” want you to be
“They” don’t matter. You matter. Forget everyone else’s expectations.
11. Let go of your past mistakes
You can’t move forward with your mind taking you backward. Learn from your “Oops!” and move on.
12. Let go of needless stress
In whatever form. A bit of stress is good for motivation; unnecessary stress is both unhealthy and unwise.
13. Let go of trying to change people
Making a difference is one thing – and it’s a noble pursuit! But get over trying to change someone who shows no interest or effort.
14. Let go of chronic procrastination
You’ll either manage the time, or the time will manage you. Procrastination is a terrible habit – and it leaves you less happy.
15. Let go of blaming others
Personal responsibility is a part of adulthood. Unfortunately, we don’t all learn that lesson. But personal responsibility = freedom.
16. Let go of “hurriedness”
Ever driven like hell towards somewhere you didn’t want to be? When there was plenty of time? Yeah, that.
17. Let go of laziness
Procrastination + Laziness = Failure.
18. Let go of not seeking out your dreams
Do you know what you’re passionate about? Are you working hard on those passions? Why not? (Think it’s too late? See #1)
19. Let go of irrational insecurities before your next birthday.
We’re all a bit sick of something about ourselves. Can you change it? If not, forget it and move on.
20. Let go of life’s inevitable unfairness
The ole’ adage “Life isn’t fair” has been repeated quintillion-plus times. You’re right – it’s not fair. What are you doing about it?
21. Let go of avoiding your problems
As with procrastination, avoiding your problems is tempting but ultimately leaves you unsatisfied.
22. Let go of regret
Marlon Brando (aka, “The Godfather) once said, “Regret is useless.” Pretty much.
23. Let go of what others think about you
As with everything else on this list, this can be hard to do. But living your life to the fullest requires not giving a damn about others’ ignorance.
24. Let go of overwhelm before your next birthday
Are you doing your best? Not procrastinating or being lazy? That’s all that matters. Release feelings of being overwhelmed.
25. Let go of anything that doesn’t make you happier or better
This pretty much sums it up. If you’re not a better or happier person because of something you’re holding onto, let go.
Moment-to-moment awareness, i.e. mindfulness, and self-compassion, can help you overcome any internal struggle. Remember your strength. Realize that letting something go can be hard, but as long as you’re moving forward, you are doing just fine!
