10 things to give up in 2017

To help you get start afresh, here are 10 things you ought to try and give up during 2017

We get it… you’ve had enough of the whole ‘new year, new me’ thing over the past few days but guess what? The idea isn’t actually so bad if you take it seriously.

You see, life teaches us lessons along the way but many times, we fail to learn them. Dividing the different phases of your life according to days, months or years – albeit silly –can help you organise these lessons. A year gives you an entire 365 days to work on your negatives and track the progress you’ve made.

To help you get start afresh, here are 10 things, as compiled from The Huffington Post, which you ought to try and give up during 2017. After all, improvement begins with ‘I.’

1) Processed foods
People underestimate the power of nutrition. We’re all just running around, looking for quick fixes to our health problems without getting proper nutrition. Little do we know that if we just give up processed food, not only will our weight improve but so will our health! Instead of boxed items and fast foods, try opting for real things like lean proteins, veggies, fruits and nuts, etc. And try to consume them in their natural state to see the difference.

2) Sitting
Fitness experts aren’t kidding when they say moving is key. There is no one perfect way to move that works for everybody so you should do what you love because that is what will help. Remember: a body in motion stays in motion. So swim, walk, run, lift weights, do yoga or go for a hike. It doesn’t matter what you do, just do something.

3) Procrastination
Ask anyone who ever made a life-changing decision and they’ll tell you how much more work it is if you hate yourself for not having taken it still, than it was to actually do the hard work to change. Stop waiting on the things you want to happen in your life and get out there and make them happen. As they say, the universe only helps those who help themselves.



4) Busyness
We are all so busy in life, but are we really? Most of our business is self-created. We dabble with so many different things on the daily that we end up overwhelmed and unhappy. So in 2017, why not teach yourself that ‘no’ is an acceptable answer and it’s perfectly alright for you to sit back, relax and enjoy some down time. Change your priorities. Don’t busy yourself with things that don’t improve you.

5) Regret
If you dwell upon what was or could/should have been, you won’t be able to find joy anywhere else. Since the past is the past, learn to make peace with each day. Do your best to improve where you can, when you can and then give up on guilt and insecurities.

6) People-pleasing
As we grow older, it becomes clearer that there is no way we can make everyone happy as they don’t always see things the way we do. In fact, many people will dislike you for that but it’s alright. Own your life and you’ll attract the right kind of people for you.



7) Fear
Everyone gets scared but when we let it govern our lives, we restrict our own potential. Give up on fears and remember you shouldn’t stress over what you can’t control.

8) Being indoors
Nature is a healer. This year, aim to head outside and experience its healing powers more. And when you do, make sure to leave all electronics at home. You will find that the time with nature allows you to hear your inner voice. While you’re there, try taking deep breaths for a full body cleansing.

9) Clutter
Declutter your life as less is always more. Contrary to what consumerism implies, you can never be truly satisfied by buying things. Not only do tangible goods eventually lose their utility, they can put one in serious financial problems. Instead, give things away to others and spend time improving yourself through fitness, nutrition and self-growth.



10) Comparison
Social media has helped our society in many regards but it has also hurt our collective communities. Because of it, we are consistently comparing our lives with that of others, despite knowing full well that people only upload the highlights on social media. You aren’t getting the full story.

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