It can be exhausting just being alive these days, so we need to take care of ourselves as much as we can. This becomes harder when you add other people into the mix as well as family, job obligations and other stressors. It’s now more important than ever to take care of your well-being. When you don’t know where to start, take a look at these certain things to give up in order to gain peace.
Toxic People
If you have people in your life that waste your time, don’t respect your boundaries, and argue all the time, chances are they are a toxic source in your life and it’s time to let them go. One-sided relationships can be stressful where you are constantly putting in the effort and energy only to be disappointed time and time again. People who are unwilling to change or make a difference in their behavior also fall into this category and need to be cut loose. You’ll feel lighter without always having to cater to their whims and you’ll pull those closer who lift you up and make you feel good.
Wasting Energy
You have limited reserves of energy, and you need to preserve them for when it matters most. Getting upset, angry, or scared about the small things only depletes your energy source, taking away the gusto you need when a big thing comes along. Learn to look at your energy as a limited supply and you’ll choose wisely where to spend it. Another aspect of time wasting is overcommitting yourself to things when you should slow down and regroup. It’s okay to assess how much energy you have and know when you might need to politely decline an invitation or request.
Being Untrue to Yourself
Your feelings and thoughts are valid. Don’t pretend to be happy when you aren’t. You don’t need to put on an act in front of others – they will accept you as you are and if they don’t, then you know where they belong. You are also the only person who knows how you are feeling mentally and need to stand up for yourself when you need something – be it someone to talk to, a snack, or some quiet time. Give up trying to ‘suck it up,’ or putting on a happy face all the time. It’s also important to stay true to yourself – trying to mold yourself to your audience will not bring you peace, it will only cause more stress.
Comparison
We’ve all heard this one, and it can be so hard to not compare yourself to others, but letting it go will bring peace to your life. Even the most ‘perfect’ life from the outside looking in has flaws and challenges. If you have trouble fully believing in this, just try to say it to yourself and eventually the brain will catch on. You can train your brain to react differently – you trained it to think toxically, you can train it to change too.
Giving up elements of your life that do not serve you can be empowering and peaceful. Commit to try giving up a few things in order to gain peace.
