Life is a journey of learning and unlearning. It’s a constant cycle of grasping onto things that seem important, only to let them go later, and vice versa. Sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of our lives, we let go of things – habits, people, pursuits – that we later realize were essential parts of our being. This blog post is a personal reflection on such things. It’s about the 12 things I wish I’d never let go.
1. Reading for Pleasure
In the rush to be productive and efficient, I let go of the habit of reading for pleasure. I started reading only what was necessary for work or personal growth.
Reading for pleasure is essential because it allows your mind to wander, to imagine, and to engage with the world in a non-demanding way. It’s a form of relaxation and stress relief that also has the potential to expand your understanding and empathy. So, if you too, like me, have stopped reading for pleasure, consider picking up that long-forgotten favorite book of yours and delve into its pages without any agenda.
2. Staying Physically Active
As a child, I was extremely active, always running around, playing sports, and generally being on the move. But as life’s responsibilities took over, physical activity took a back seat.
Staying physically active is not just about maintaining a certain weight or physique. It’s about keeping your body healthy and agile, and your mind sharp and alert. Physical activity is known to boost mood and energy levels, enhance sleep quality, and reduce the risk of numerous health issues. So, start small, maybe with a daily walk or a short workout routine, and gradually build it into your lifestyle.
3. Spending Time with Nature
In the pursuit of a fast-paced urban life, I gradually lost touch with nature. I stopped taking those long walks in the park, or spending quiet afternoons in the backyard.
Spending time with nature can be incredibly therapeutic and rejuvenating. It helps to clear the mind, improve mood, and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. So, make it a point to regularly connect with nature, whether it’s by going for a hike, gardening, or simply sitting under a tree and soaking in the beauty around you.
4. Pursuing a Hobby
I used to love painting, but as I got busier, my brushes and colors started gathering dust. I wish I had never let go of this passion.
Pursuing a hobby is a great way to relax, unwind, and express yourself creatively. It provides a break from the monotony of routine and can also boost your self-esteem and confidence. So, dust off your old guitar, pick up those knitting needles, or whatever it is that you enjoy doing, and make time for it in your schedule.
5. Keeping a Journal
I used to maintain a daily journal where I penned down my thoughts, ideas, and experiences. But as digital distractions increased, this habit got lost somewhere.
Keeping a journal is a wonderful practice that encourages self-reflection and mindfulness. It helps you to understand yourself better, manage your emotions, and chart your personal growth. So, consider starting a journal, even if it’s just jotting down a few lines each day.
6. Spending Time Alone
In a world that’s constantly connected, I realized that I had stopped spending quality time alone. I was either with people or with my devices.
Spending time alone is important for self-awareness, personal growth, and rejuvenation. It gives you the space to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. So, carve out some ‘me-time’ in your schedule and use it to do things that you love or simply to be with your thoughts.
7. Saying ‘No’
In trying to please everyone, I often ended up saying ‘yes’ when I really wanted to say ‘no’. I wish I had never let go of my ability to set boundaries.
Saying ‘no’ is not about being selfish or unkind. It’s about respecting your own needs and limits. It’s about taking care of your mental and emotional well-being. So, learn to say ‘no’ when you need to. It might feel uncomfortable initially, but it gets easier with practice.
8. Being Mindful
In the mad rush of life, I realized that I was mostly operating on autopilot, barely aware of my surroundings or my actions.
Being mindful is about being fully present in the moment, aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensory experiences. It’s a powerful practice that can reduce stress, increase focus, and improve overall well-being. So, try to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life, whether it’s while eating, walking, or even doing chores.
9. Keeping in Touch with Friends
With the demands of work and family, I gradually lost touch with many of my friends. I wish I had made more effort to stay connected.
Keeping in touch with friends is not just about socializing. It’s about maintaining those vital emotional connections that provide support, joy, and a sense of belonging. So, reach out to your friends, send them a text, call them up, or plan a meet-up.
10. Eating Healthy
In the quest for convenience, I let go of my habit of eating healthy, home-cooked meals and started relying more on fast food.
Eating healthy is not just about maintaining a certain weight. It’s about nourishing your body, boosting your immunity, and enhancing your overall health and vitality. So, try to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet, and limit your intake of processed foods.
11. Being Grateful
In the midst of life’s challenges and frustrations, I often forgot to appreciate the good things in my life.
Being grateful is about recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of your life. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can increase happiness, reduce stress, and improve relationships. So, start a gratitude journal or simply take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for.
12. Believing in Myself
In the face of failures and rejections, I sometimes let go of my faith in myself. I wish I had held on to it more strongly.
Believing in yourself is about acknowledging your abilities and potential, and having the confidence to pursue your dreams and goals. It’s the foundation for personal and professional success. So, remind yourself of your strengths, celebrate your achievements, and never stop believing in your potential.
Life is a constant process of learning and growing, and it’s never too late to reclaim the things that add value and joy to your existence. So, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve let go and consider if it’s worth bringing back into your life.