New Year’s Resolutions — 10 Habits Worth Parting Ways With in 2023

Free yourself from negative habits and create a space for better things in your life.

I am sure we all have things we would like to do in 2023. With a new year comes a list of must-do aspirations on everyone’s minds right now (5 more days to 2023!). New Year’s resolutions are often associated with gaining or accomplishing a goal or task.

“I want to get fit, become rich or be more enlightened.”

However, we don’t often associate it with removing or letting go of things or habits. Nature is all about balance, and if you want to achieve something, sometimes you have to let go of another thing. Let’s feel more fulfilled by letting go of these 10 habits that are holding you back.

1. The past — I am a serial ruminator, and I understand how hard it is to let go of the past. All the mistakes, embarrassing moments, or perhaps someone wronged you. All these and more bottled up in you are not helping you be the best version of yourself. Is it easier said than done, but somehow, through some way, you have to let go of the past to experience a brighter future.
2. Toxic people — We all know that friend or family member that seems to bring drama into your life, and we can’t say no to. Even though they may be very dear to us, sometimes the best course of action is to set firm boundaries. A wise friend said, “You have to protect yourself and your mental health.”
3. People pleasing and chasing people — As social creatures, we want to fit in and belong. We want others to accept us, so we try to please and chase them. Whether through our appearance, wealth, power, or whatever sacrifice we can offer. If you’re tired of this, know that the right people will find and be with you without having to impress or please them. Just be you.
4. Keeping up with the Joneses — I feel like this is another branch of people pleasing — a way to fit in, but more in terms of status and wealth. Treating yourself to luxury items is always fun when you can afford them. At the end of the day, please don’t go into debt to impress others. Your financial stability (and mental health) is more valuable than people’s opinion of you.
5. Traditions that hold you back — I grew up in Malaysia, where the collective culture is upheld to very high standards. Even though I have lived overseas for almost half my life, my old friends and relatives still expect me to behave traditionally. Even the way I shake hands is scrutinized. I am sure many of you, the world’s citizens, have experienced this. Call it reverse culture shock, but I am still standing and living my life as I please.
6. Mental beliefs that hold you back — I am talking about that little voice inside your head that says you’re a certain way. Or that self-doubt that’s keeping you from applying to that new job. All those intrusive thoughts, all of it. Let’s relearn to love ourselves again and ignore this negative self-talk.
7. Entitlements — This is another one that needs to end in 2022. Anger and resentment are sure to follow if you go through life believing that the entire world owes you anything and everything. All of us are trying out best out here, including yourself. So don’t expect people to behave according to your expectation. Compassion goes a long way here.
8. Procrastination — It’s one of the most common bad habits that everyone struggles with. We all know how bad it is, but we can’t seem to let go of it. We procrastinate for many different reasons — fear of failure, lack of motivation, analysis paralysis, and so on. Whatever the reason is, please know that the longer you hold off on that task, the worse it becomes, and the longer you have to wait for that dream life. Choose what matters most, and don’t wait to finish it.
9. Perfectionism — Perfectionism is a habit that people develop over time. The need to be perfect can interfere with your work, relationships, and overall well-being. You are not alone if you feel like you’re never good enough because most of us feel the same way. Don’t let this feeling stop you from trying new things or experiencing life. Our flaws truly make us perfect.
10. Worrying about the future — Last but not least, time to part ways with worrying about the future. The future is uncertain, even with the best advice and guidance. Make your plans, and that’s it. Then focus on the present and take things one at a time.

Most of us are a bit stuck in our ways, but that doesn’t mean we can’t change. There is always hope. As 2023 comes, I wish everyone the best on this weird journey called life. I hope this article gave you some ideas of what your 2023 could be.

Please share your journey and keep me updated!

Let’s make this year the wholesome year we’ve always wanted.