As we approach the start of the new year, this is the perfect time to look at all of the unhelpful things in our lives that might be holding us back from becoming the best versions of ourselves. So here are 6 things to leave behind in 2022 and let’s begin 2023 strong as we set out to achieve our goals!

1. Neglecting your health

It is so easy to get comfortable with unhealthy habits and just neglecting our health. Whether it be staying up too late, binging shows on Netflix, eating too much junk food, or drinking too much alcohol, it is time to find a good balance so that you can prioritize your health while still living your best life!

This can seem overwhelming, so DO NOT overhaul your life and try to do everything all at once. That will just set yourself up for failure. Try making small changes that are sustainable, that you can commit to long-term. I recommend focusing on adding healthy habits instead of trying to restrict yourself. Such as, adding more veggies, increasing your protein and water intake, getting more sleep, moving your body more.

2. Excuses

There are legitimate reasons why some of us have trouble working out; whether it be due to medical issues, physical limitations as a result from injury, and even just being in the trenches with infants and toddlers. However, there are some of us who just need to be honest with ourselves and know when we are just making excuses; and the truth is, we just aren’t making health and fitness a priority. Sometimes, the truth hurts and it is hard to fess up to, but when we do, we can finally make the changes necessary to accomplish the health goals we have been dreaming of for so long. When it comes to health and wellness, we are the only ones who can make the changes to our lifestyle to become the best version of ourselves. Nobody else can do it for us! So, tell yourself, if I really want a life of good health and wellness; six months from now I can either have six months of excuses or six months of progress. I encourage you to choose six months of progress! Be stronger than your excuses! You are absolutely capable of it!

3. Not believing in yourself

Not believing in yourself is a surefire way to keep yourself stuck or set up for failure. You find yourself not even trying because you already think you cannot do it. However, what if you believed in yourself the same way you believe in your kids, your best friend, or your spouse? I am sure you tell everyone else that they are capable of anything! Well guess what, so are you! You are worthy, deserving, and capable of greatness! It is time that you believe that too and know that you can do anything that you set your mind to!

4. Negative Self-Talk

How you talk to yourself matters! Try talking to yourself like you would someone you love. Negative self-talk is not helpful and most often completely untrue. We are so much more critical of ourselves than we would ever be to someone we care about. So next time you catch yourself in negative self-talk, remind yourself that you are worthy of positive self-talk and it is time that you turn that kindness, love, and attention that you give to others back to yourself!

5. Fear of Failure

Fearing failure can keep people stuck or from pursuing things they truly desire. It is so important to remember that winners aren’t people who never fail, they are people who never quit. Anytime you do something out of your comfort zone, you’re taking a risk. However, taking that first step, taking that risk, that right there is already a win…the first successful act towards a healthy lifestyle. 

Embrace the fact that failure happens to everyone. It is important to understand that we all fail at times; we mess up, we miss a workout, we over indulge…and that is okay. The important thing is that we keep going and never quit; because that is the real failure. We will succeed if we never give up.

6. Procrastination

There will never be a “perfect” time. So, stop procrastinating and waiting for the “right time” to start. The time is NOW! We are always going to be busy and there will be holidays and vacations every year! Life doesn’t stop. It is important to learn how to create good habits, discipline, and a healthy mindset that allows you to work through these times. It is about making the time and your health a priority in your life. If you learn how to live a healthy and sustainable lifestyle during the busiest of times, the rest of the year will be a piece of cake! It is time to quit saying “one day” and make it “day one”!

Here’s to making 2023 your year to accomplish all your health and wellness goals!