Written by: Jacqueline Neuwirth, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Could the key to a happier life be found not in the things we gather but in those we choose to release? Everyone seems to be searching for the secret to happiness. It’s a compelling thought that happiness might be less about what we seek to obtain and more about releasing what no longer serves us. This article will guide you through 8 things to release for a lighter, more fulfilled existence.
1. Perfectionism
Letting go of the pursuit of perfection can significantly increase how happy you feel. Perfectionism often leads to a cycle of stress and disappointment. Embrace a positive but honest way of viewing your efforts and achievements. Recognize that making mistakes is part of learning and growing. Celebrating progress rather than expecting perfection can lead to a healthier mindset and improve your emotional well-being. Perfectionism can be like a treadmill that keeps you spinning and can take away from feeling content with your life just as it is.
2. The need for control
Trying to control every aspect of life can lead to frustration and anxiety. Understand that some things are beyond your control, and that's okay. Practice deep breathing or other stress-reduction techniques to help release tension and reduce stress levels. Adopting a more flexible approach can help your brain and body work more efficiently, leading to a happier and more balanced life.
3. Past mistakes
Holding onto past mistakes can prevent you from moving forward. It's important to learn from these experiences but then let them go. Practicing gratitude for the lessons learned can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. This shift can effectively reduce stress and contribute to your overall mental health and happiness.
4. Fear of failure
Fear of failure can be paralyzing, preventing you from trying new things or taking risks. Adopting a growth mindset, where failures are seen as opportunities to learn, can help you embrace life's ups and downs. Engaging in moderate exercise can release chemicals that boost your mood and resilience, helping you feel emotionally stronger and more prepared to face challenges.
5. Toxic relationships
Toxic relationships can severely impact your self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. It's crucial to identify and limit these negative influences in your life. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who encourage positive changes. Engaging in fun activities or joining a support group can introduce you to new friends and help you build a network of positive relationships.
6. The comparison trap
Comparing yourself to others can detract from your happiness. Focus on making healthy choices for yourself, such as adopting a well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and incorporating regular exercise into your routine. These healthy habits contribute to a healthy lifestyle that supports your mental and physical health, allowing you to appreciate your unique journey without feeling the need to compare.
7. Excessive worrying
Worrying too much about the future can prevent you from enjoying the present. Incorporate a few time management techniques to help take control of your schedule, reduce stress, and free up time for activities that bring you joy. Regular exercise, a good diet, and ensuring you get enough rest and sleep, can also help manage anxiety levels, promoting a more positive mindset.
8. Materialism
Rethinking the importance of material possessions can lead to more happiness. Focus on experiences and relationships that enrich your life. Eating well, limiting alcohol intake, and practicing healthy lifestyle habits contribute to your overall well-being. Remember, a heart-healthy lifestyle isn't just about physical health; it's also about nurturing your mental health and relationships, leading to a more fulfilling and happier life.
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Jacqueline Neuwirth, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
With twenty-five years of consulting experience, Jacqueline is dedicated to helping individuals transform challenges, confusion, and doubt into clarity, confidence, and success in both their personal and professional life.
She combines a holistic and strategic approach to help clients in the full spectrum of love and relationships, including dating, recovery from breakups, and enhancing current relationships or evaluating if it’s right to stay or leave. She also has extensive experience helping clients in their career to create more fulfillment, higher impact, or make a make a career change for greater life satisfaction.
Her coaching incorporates a lifelong study of both Eastern and Western philosophy plus her ten-year journey of working one-on-one with a Zen monk. Incorporating theories and practices such as Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Non-Violent Communication (NVC), Mindfulness, and the Law of Attraction, she provides tailored guidance designed to meet each client’s unique needs. She is currently furthering her expertise as an MFT Candidate in Counseling Psychology.
For those ready to make transformative change Jacqueline Neuwirth offers a free consultation through her website: www.jacquelineneuwirth.com.