New Year, Better You: Things We’re Leaving in 2023

Every new year, we talk about our resolutions, what we want to do, and the goals we want to achieve. But how about we change things up this year?

Instead of talking about what we want to do, let’s talk about what we want to leave behind. We must leave certain things, people, and mentalities in the past and move forward without them.

The Hustle-Bustle Mentality as a Symbol of Success

It doesn’t matter what you call it. Booked and busy, grinding, working your fingers to the bone. For some reason, we have come to believe that the more we work, the more successful we are. In 2024, let’s leave that mentality behind. Success should not be defined by how overworked, overwhelmed, or overextended we are. Let’s instead prioritize work-life balance and taking care of our mental and physical health.

Not Maxing Out Our PTO

We’re leaving behind the habit of not taking our well-deserved time off. It’s important to prioritize rest and recharge so we can return to work feeling our best. We’re not machines, so we can’t keep going and going without taking a break. So, let’s start planning those vacations and use our PTO!

Saying No to New Experiences

One of my clients skydiving for the very first time!

In 2024, we’re leaving behind the fear of trying new things. Too often, we say no to opportunities out of fear or anxiety. But trying new things can help us grow and create unforgettable memories. Let’s say yes to new experiences, whether trying a new restaurant, traveling to a new country, or signing up for the excursion you’ve always said no to.

Not Traveling

We’ve already discussed this… You’re busy. We get it. But your to-do list cannot continue to take priority over everything else. Stop saying, “I’ll take that trip next year,” or “I’ll travel when I have more time.” The truth is, every single day is a gift, and we should make the most of it. So, in 2024, let’s prioritize travel and explore new places, cultures, and experiences.

Waiting for the ‘Perfect’ Moment

We’ve all been guilty of procrastinating or waiting for the “right” time to start something. But the truth is, there will never be a perfect moment. There will always be obstacles and challenges, but if we wait for them to pass, we may never get started. Let’s leave behind this mentality of waiting for perfection and instead take action toward our goals and dreams right now.

Social Media Addiction

With the rise of social media, it’s easy to get caught up in constantly checking our feeds and comparing ourselves to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, procrastination, and self-doubt. In 2024, let’s stop watching and wishing for the well-staged lives of others and start living our own lives authentically.

The Idea that Self-Care is Selfish

Self-care is not selfish. It’s necessary. In 2024, we’re leaving behind the idea that we must constantly put others before ourselves. Taking care of our physical, mental, and emotional health is essential to show up fully for others. So, let’s make self-care a non-negotiable and prioritize it like any other important task.

The People Who Say They Will, But We Know They Won’t

You don’t actually have to leave them behind, but in 2024, let’s not wait on them either. If they show interest in a trip you’re eyeing, but you know the odds are they’ll back out, go without them. Go solo, invite someone else, or join a travel group and connect with a community of people who love to travel just like you.

Conclusion

The saying New Year – New Me is great. It encourages us to strive for personal growth and improvement. But instead of a complete overhaul, let’s focus on leaving behind the things that no longer serve us and move forward with a fresh mindset. So this year, let’s adjust that by saying…

New Year, Better Me.