“Be yourself… but be your best self.” – Consolee Nishimwe

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As we close the chapter on 2024, now is a perfect time to reflect on how far we’ve come and the lessons we’d like to carry into the new year.

While I don’t particularly make New Year’s resolutions, I do believe it’s important to create new goals that will help me grow in different areas of my life.

For me, the end of the year signifies leaving behind the old and making room for the new. This could mean releasing negative patterns to welcome new thoughts, new habits, and new ideas into our lives.

One of my favorite quotes read, “If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.” So, here’s to spreading our wings and reaching our full potential in 2025.

Here’s a list of 10 habits you should let go of to become your best self!

Your ultimate goal in life is to become your best self. Your immediate goal is to get on the path that will lead you there.

David Viscott

1. Let Go of Control

Letting go of control is often easier said than done. But when we finally do let go, we invite more peace, joy, and freedom into our lives. Letting go of the need to control every outcome can reduce stress and increase our faith. It allows us to surrender our worries and fully trust God—believing that all things are truly working together for our good.

2. Let Go of Holding Grudges

Another thing that often hinders us from moving forward in life is holding on to the past. Becoming your best self often involves letting go of what’s behind you so you can embrace what lies ahead.

Practicing forgiveness—and releasing grudges against those who’ve offended us—can lead to more peaceful and fulfilling lives. In fact, studies show that letting go of grudges can promote physical health, along with spiritual and emotional healing.

3. Let Go of Wanting Everyone to Accept You

It’s natural to want to be accepted by others. But understanding that not everyone will like or accept us is true growth.

If you’re constantly worrying about what other people think of you, then you’ll never reach your full potential. Instead of focusing on gaining the approval of others—focus on building a happy, successful, and authentic life.

4. Let Go of Overspending

Irresponsible spending is a form of self-sabotage that is often overlooked. The truth is, having a lack of peace and progress in life is sometimes the result of bad money habits.

Just like your mental and physical health, your financial health is important for your overall well-being. Prioritize your future self by building good spending habits that will set you up for success.

5. Let Go of Comparing Yourself to Others

We’re human… And it’s natural to compare ourselves to other people from time to time. But if you’re constantly comparing yourself to others, then it’s time to let it go.

Comparing yourself to other people can negatively affect you in several ways. Not only is it unhealthy, but it can also distract you from bettering your own life. Instead of focusing on the lives of others—focus on your strengths, your growth, and your goals.

6. Let Go of Negativity

Negativity can occur in many forms, and it can look different for each of us. But some of the most common types of negativities involve complaining, pessimistic thinking, jealousy, gossiping, and blaming others for our setbacks.

If you want to lead a more positive life, then you must reduce the amount of negative energy around you. Try practicing mindfulness exercises, prayer, and positive affirmations to transform your thinking and behaviors.

7. Let Go of Procrastinating on Your Goals

The quote, “dreams don’t work unless you do,” by John C. Maxwell really sums up a lot. Taking action in your life is the key to achieving your goals.

Many people procrastinate due to factors such as lack of routine, fear of failure, trouble focusing, or feeling like their goals are beyond reach.

If you often find yourself procrastinating, there are several things you can do to improve your motivation. Start by setting small, clear goals that excite you. Then try practicing daily meditation to enhance your mental clarity.

8. Let Go of Constant Busyness

Yes, procrastination can hinder you from becoming your best self. But so can constant busyness.

Staying busy can negatively affect your mental and physical health, leading to depression and burnout. It can also prevent you from embracing the present, diminishing your joy and happiness over time.

The truth is, self-growth involves a great deal of self-reflection and connecting inward, which can be difficult to accomplish if you’re constantly on the go. Remember, life is all about embracing balance. Goals are important—but so is stillness.

9. Let Go of Fearing Change

Wanting things to stay the same is a natural part of life. But as we all know, change is inevitable. The longer we resist change, the longer we hold ourselves back from embracing new opportunities.

Overcoming the fear of change is a challenge for many people, including myself. But we must learn to seek God’s guidance in the unknown, and trust that He is leading us through every chapter.

10. Let Go of Perfectionism

Chasing unrealistic standards can be a real threat to your happiness and well-being. Instead of seeking perfectionism, try embracing flexibility when it comes to your goals.

Striving for progress—not perfection—can add more peace and contentment to your life. In turn, your increased satisfaction can lead to a greater sense of purpose and self-acceptance.

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The end of the year is the perfect time to celebrate both ‘the person you are’ and ‘the person you want to become.’

Is there anything you’re striving to let go of to become your best self in 2025? Let me know in the comments!