There’s a brand new year just around the corner, so now’s the perfect time to think about habits that aren’t serving you anymore. You probably know there are certain patterns that drain your energy and behaviors that create unnecessary stress. But bringing more attention to them can help you break free from these habits and move into the New Year with a clean slate. So let’s look at a few common habits experts recommend ditching before the year is through.
Procrastinating Until the Last Minute
That habit of waiting until the very last minute until you start on something important? It’s probably adding more stress to your life than you realize. Procrastination often makes tasks feel bigger and scarier than they actually are. But the good news is there’s a simple way to tackle this: breaking big tasks into smaller steps, celebrating those little victories, and getting started right away. Even small progress can build momentum and make those big tasks feel more manageable.
Skipping Breakfast
We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it’s about time we listened to that wisdom. Most nutritionists will tell you that skipping breakfast can make you miss out on a much-needed energy boost in the morning.
Even something quick like yogurt or a slice of whole-grain toast can do wonders for your focus and stamina. Making breakfast a priority doesn’t have to be complicated either—simply having a plan to start your day right can set the tone for healthier habits overall.
Spending on Stuff You Don’t Need
I know it’s easy to get carried away with that little “add to cart” button, but as you may have learned the hard way, impulse buying can leave your wallet lighter and your home unnecessarily cluttered. So instead of rushing into a purchase, we experts recommend taking a moment to think about whether it’s something you truly need or just a passing temptation. This will help you save money and feel more in control of your finances.
Scrolling Through Bad News for Hours
Let’s face it: doomscrolling is exhausting and emotionally draining. It can be addictive to constantly refresh your feed, but those negative headlines can seriously mess with your mood and leave you feeling tired and low. Instead of endlessly scrolling, it’s better to set limits on your screen time and make space for uplifting or inspiring activities, like reading a book or taking a walk.
Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else
While social media can certainly be used for good, a lot of people use it to present an unrealistic image of perfection. Looking at posts and profiles like these can make you feel like you’re falling short, even when you’re doing just fine. In reality, there’s only one person you should be comparing yourself to, and that’s you!
So instead of playing the comparison game, focus on your own goals and celebrate the progress you’re making. Everyone’s path is different, and learning to appreciate your journey can help you feel happier and more confident in yourself.
Choosing Fast Food Over Real Food
There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself every now and then, but if you constantly find yourself reaching for a burger or a bag of chips when life gets busy, you could be putting your health at risk. Too much processed food can leave you feeling sluggish, drained, and unfocused. Luckily, swapping out junk food for whole, nutritious options doesn’t have to be a huge effort—keeping fresh fruits, nuts, or pre-cut veggies on hand can make healthier choices a breeze.
Saying Yes to Things You Don’t Want to Do
It’s time to call out the people-pleasers among us. It can be really difficult to say no sometimes, especially to people you respect or care about. But saying yes to every request, even when you don’t have the time or energy, means you’re sacrificing your own well-being for the sake of others. If this sounds like you, it’s time to rethink your boundaries. Learning to say “no” politely but firmly gives you the freedom to focus on what really matters to you.
Not Sleeping Enough
There are many reasons why people don’t get enough sleep these days. Maybe you’re always staying up late to binge-watch your favorite show, or maybe you’re trying to be productive by getting ahead on work. But whatever the case may be, there’s no good reason to jeopardize your rest and health.
Sleep is essential for your mental focus, emotional well-being, and overall health. It’s time to start prioritizing rest by setting a consistent bedtime and creating a relaxing wind-down routine.
Forgetting to Drink Enough Water
With so many distractions around us, it’s easy to forget about staying hydrated, especially when you’re busy. But here’s the thing: dehydration is a serious issue that can leave you feeling tired, cranky, and unwell. Experts recommend keeping a water bottle close by throughout the day to remind yourself to sip regularly. It’s a small habit that makes a big impact on your overall health.
Hanging Onto Grudges
Sometimes people do some truly terrible things that wreak havoc on our lives. But oftentimes, holding onto grudges can do more harm to us than anyone else. You don’t have to forgive someone who wronged you, but letting go of those heavy grudges may free you from the weight of negative emotions.
Multitasking Too Much
You may feel like you’re being more productive when you’re juggling 10 things at once, but in reality, it often leads to more mistakes and burnout. Experts say that focusing on one task at a time can help you be more productive and less stressed. It’s okay to take things step by step—remember that slowing down doesn’t mean you’re falling behind.
Ignoring Your Finances
If you’re always putting off money matters, you might be causing yourself a lot of unnecessary stress later down the line. Maybe you need to work on your budgeting, saving, or paying off debt. Whatever you’re struggling with, taking small, manageable steps can make a huge difference over time. The New Year is a great opportunity to start fresh with better financial habits, like tracking your expenses or setting up automatic savings.
Avoiding Exercise Altogether
You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic, but skipping physical activity completely can leave you feeling sluggish and less resilient. Even a quick walk or a few stretches can help boost your mood and energy. Finding an activity you enjoy makes it easier to stick with and turns exercise into something to look forward to.
Gossiping About Others
It can be really hard to resist the temptation of gossiping, and you might tell yourself what they don’t know can’t hurt them. But it can actually create negativity in your relationships and make others wonder if you’re secretly talking behind their backs too. Shifting your focus toward more meaningful conversations can help you build stronger connections with the people in your life.
Overthinking Every Little Thing
Do you find yourself spending far too much time analyzing or second-guessing yourself? This can keep you stuck in a loop of inaction and anxiety. So instead of overthinking, we recommend you try focusing on what’s within your control and taking small steps forward. Trusting yourself more and letting go of perfectionism can help you approach challenges with confidence.
Skimping on “Me Time”
Contrary to what you may believe, putting yourself first is not selfish at all. In fact, constantly putting others first and neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout and ultimately worsen your relationships with those close to you. “Me time” is essential for recharging and staying grounded, so don’t skimp out on doing your favorite hobbies or self-care activities.
Holding Onto Too Much Stuff
Clutter can create mental and physical stress, even if you don’t realize it. Letting go of items you no longer use or need can make your space feel lighter and more inviting. Start small—tackle one drawer or closet at a time—and enjoy the sense of relief that comes with simplifying your surroundings.
Eating While Distracted
Munching in front of the TV or scrolling on your phone during meals can lead to overeating or missing out on the experience of enjoying your food. Practicing mindful eating helps you tune into your body’s hunger cues and appreciate your meals more fully. Slowing down at mealtime can make eating more satisfying and less stressful.