A Few Things to Leave in 2021

It’s that time of year again where many people create resolutions for the new year. Often, these consist of promises to do more or a commitment to add on a new activity or practice in the new year. Have you ever thought about what you could eliminate instead of adding on? Sometimes we don’t realize we are holding onto painful and limiting core beliefs. We may also not be aware of repeated patterns we engage in.

Below you will find a list of things to leave behind in the year 2021. Consider how these things might prevent you from living out your highest and most authentic self.

1. “Should of” statements (Example: What you should have done in 2021)- These statements increase shame and guilt. Shame and guilt do not breed growth or healing.
2. Perfectionism- It is okay to pursue wholeness over perfection. It is okay to embrace your humanity.
3. Restricted eating and diet culture- How might you heal your relationship with food this year?
4. People-pleasing-Not conveying your boundaries, needs, likes, and dislikes for the comfort of others is a quick way to feel resentful and burnt out.
5. Continuing a relationship with someone you don’t like- Not everyone is for you, and you are not for everybody.
6. Being passive aggressive instead of compassionately stating how you feel- Remember that being nice and being kind are two different things.
7. Tying your worth to productivity- Tying your worth to anything outside of yourself will leave you constantly feeling unworthy.
8. Reacting instead of responding- Allowing yourself to pause first eliminates defensiveness and jumping to conclusions.
9. Negative self-talk- The first step to gaining self-confidence is self-compassion. Talking to yourself like you would talk to your best friend is one way to be kind to yourself.
10. Resting as a last resort or only to recharge-You rest because it is your fundamental right to do so. You were born to experience leisure, rest, and joy.

As we enter 2022, what would you like to center on? What might you like to silence? What is no longer serving you in 2022?

If you would like to speak to a professional counselor about topics, such as the one featured in this blog, and are in the Chicago area, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Written by Liz, Mental Health Counseling Master’s Level Intern