What to Let Go Of and Embrace to Be Happier

You deserve to be happy. It is time to let go of things that hold you back and welcome things that encourage a happier and healthier life.

Life is too short to be anything but happy. There are small but significant changes you can make to your daily habits and mindset that can make it easier to live a healthier and happier life. Whether you're seeking personal growth, deeper connections, or simply more peace, the following 20 practices can help guide you toward a more fulfilling, balanced life. By embracing self-love, gratitude, mindfulness, and more, you'll create space for positivity, resilience, and lasting change.

10 Things You Should Let Go of To Live a Happier and Healthier Life

If you're ready to live a more joyful and balanced life, it’s time to let go of some things that may be weighing you down. These 10 habits, beliefs, and patterns can keep you stuck, but by releasing them, you create space for positive change and personal growth. Here’s where to start:

1.      Other People's Approval

We all want to feel accepted, but constantly seeking validation from others can limit your freedom and authentic self-expression. Learning to let go of other people's approval can be one of the most freeing and empowering steps toward personal growth. It takes practice, but it's definitely worth it. Your self-worth should come from within, not from the opinions of others.

“If you are an approval addict, your behaviour is as easy to control as that of any other junkie. All a manipulator need do is a simple two-step process: Give you what you crave, and then threaten to take it away. Every drug dealer in the world plays this game.” ~ Harriet B. Braiker

Explore your own values and beliefs so that you’re clear about what matters to you. This makes it easier to make decisions based on your beliefs rather than validation from others. Practice letting go of other’s approval in low-stakes situations – like choosing an outfit you feel yourself in, and speaking up in conversations when you’d stay quiet. Try to remember that what people think of you is often more about them than it is you. When you stop living for approval, you start living for yourself – authentically and unapologetically.

“When we inhabit our own life - stop doing things based on the approval of others - we offload baggage and trade up to joy!” ~  Laurie Buchanan

Affirmation: I only seek approval from myself. I live to make myself happy and proud.

2.      Old Stories About Yourself

Learning to let go of old stories about yourself is a powerful but continuous process. Often, these stories are shaped by past experiences and mistakes, limiting beliefs, or judgments others have placed on you, and they can hold you back from fully embracing who you are today. These stories can trap you in a cycle of self-criticism. Letting go of these old stories gives you the freedom to rewrite your personal narrative and embrace your full potential.

“We use stories to order and make sense of our lives, to define who we are, even to construct our realities: this happened, then this happened, then this. I was, I am, I will be. We recount our dreams, narrate our days and organize our memories into stories we tell others and ourselves.” ~ John Capecci and Timothy Cage

TThe first step is to recognise these stories and notice how they influence your thoughts, emotions, and actions. The second step is to question their validity and who you could be without them. The third step is to rewrite these narratives into new, empowering stories about yourself. You may need to begin forgiving yourself (and others) to really release these burdens and move on in peace. Try to remain in the present, allowing yourself to be the person you are today.

“Sometimes we have to inspire and encourage ourselves, through our personal narrative. And we start with what we know.” ~ Deborah L. Parker

Affirmation: I choose to believe in the best version of myself, and I know I deserve good things.

3.      Dwelling on the Past and Future

Letting go of dwelling on the past and worrying about the future can be a challenge, but it’s also incredibly freeing. Naturally, it helps create more space for peace in the present moment (supporting mindful living).

Sometimes, reflecting on the past can bring valuable lessons, but when you linger too long, it can become a bit like carrying an emotional weight (getting lost in the would’ve, should’ve, could’ve’s of life). The same goes for the future: it can be easy to get caught up in what might happen, but the uncertainty can create unnecessary stress (become anxious about conversations that may never happen, stressing about situations that may never occur).

“To get over the past, you first have to accept that the past is over. No matter how many times you revisit it, analyze it, regret it, or sweat it…it’s over. It can hurt you no more.” ~ Mandy Hale

Two truths of life are (1) the past cannot be changed and (2) the future is always uncertain. One approach that might help you stop dwelling on the past and or future is practicing mindfulness. It’s about gently bringing your focus back to the present when your mind starts to wander. It could be something as simple as taking a few deep breaths, feeling the ground beneath you, or noticing the sounds around you. Gradually, you might find it easier to appreciate the moment as it is.

“If you want to be happy, do not dwell in the past, do not worry about the future, focus on living fully in the present.” ~ Roy T. Bennett

Affirmation: I embrace the present moment as a gift, full of possibilities.

4.      The Need for Control

Learning to let go of the need for control is definitely a big step toward personal growth, though it can be difficult. Many people hold on to control because it gives them a sense of safety, but it can also create stress and prevent you from enjoying life fully.

Life is unpredictable, and that's okay. Embracing uncertainty can make you more resilient and open to new experiences. Try to focus on what you can control, like your reactions, rather than the outcome of everything around you.

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.”

Instead of thinking of control as a way to prevent bad things from happening, see it as a way to make space for new opportunities. This mindset shift and letting go of the need for control can often open doors that you didn't expect.

“Life is to be lived, not controlled.” ~ Ralph Ellison

You don’t have to completely let go of control all at once. Start by letting someone else take the lead. Sometimes you may feel the need to control because you’re worried others won’t do things as well as you would. Giving others the space to handle situations can help you trust both yourself and them. Another idea is to allow a situation to unfold without trying to manage every detail – working on adopting the mindset that the universe has your back.

“Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't.” ~ Steve Maraboli

Affirmation: I focus on what I can control and trust that the rest is working out for my highest good.

5.      The Need for Certainty

Letting go of the need for certainty can be quite liberating, though it's definitely a process that takes time. Similarly to needing control, becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable (uncertainty) can lead to more flexibility, growth, and resilience.

“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.” ~ John Lennon

Some of the most beautiful aspects of life happen in those uncertain moments, where you’re open to surprises, learning, and growth. Rather than fearing uncertainty, see it as a time full of chances and opportunities. You don’t need to have all the answers all the time, because no one does.

“Let go of certainty. The opposite isn't uncertainty. It's openness, curiosity and a willingness to embrace paradox, rather than choose up sides. The ultimate challenge is to accept ourselves exactly as we are, but never stop trying to learn and grow.” ~ Tony Schwartz

Affirmation: I trust the journey and know that everything will unfold at the right time.

6.      Being 'Productive' All the Time

This is an important one to recognise. We live in a world where productivity is often seen as the ultimate value, but it can leave you feeling burnt out, disconnected, or guilty when you take breaks. If you are someone who brags about being busy, ask yourself what you’re trying to prove.

Your innate value is based on who you are and not what you do. And so, you have value, even when you’re resting and simply ‘being’. Letting go of the pressure to always be "on" can create so much space for creativity, relaxation, and even better productivity when it’s needed. Don’t miss out on being there physically and showing up for someone, because that’s what they will remember more than any material gift.

"You are more than your productivity. You are a human being, not a human doing." ~ Unknown

Affirmation: I am enough always, even when I rest and recharge.

7.      Your Comfort Zone

Learning to let go of your comfort zone can be both challenging and rewarding. Yes it feels safe, but it also limits your growth. Adopting a growth mindset can help you recognise that feeling uncomfortable is a part of developing new skills and expanding perspectives.

“The comfort zone is a psychological state in which one feels familiar, safe, at ease, and secure. You never change your life until you step out of your comfort zone; change begins at the end of your comfort zone.” ~ Roy T. Bennett

You can start small and get used to being uncomfortable in a manageable way. Try a new activity and face a small fear. Be kind to yourself as you do this.  

“Life always begins with one step outside of your comfort zone.” ~ Shannon L. Alder

Affirmation: I am safe as I expand my world and embrace new experiences.

8.      Waiting to Feel 100 % 'Ready'

Waiting for the perfect moment to take action can leave you stuck in inaction. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we need to be 100% ready before we take action, but the truth is, action itself is often what helps us get ready. Often, you may never feel ‘ready’.

"It's a terrible thing, I think, in life to wait until you're ready." ~Hugh Laurie

Sometimes it’s the first step (no matter how imperfect) that sparks momentum and growth. Practice letting go of this feeling by leaning into trusting where you are, and that you’ll figure things out along the way.

“There are two things we should always be 1. raw and 2. ready. When you are raw, you are always ready and when you are ready you usually realize that you are raw. Waiting for perfection is not an answer, one cannot say "I will be ready when I am perfect" because then you will never be ready, rather one must say "I am raw and I am ready just like this right now, how and who I am.” ~ C. JoyBell C.

Affirmation: I am bold and courageous. I trust my ability to succeed, even when I don’t feel fully prepared.  

9.      Perfection (It Doesn't Exist)

Striving for perfection can be mentally exhausting. The constant pressure to get everything exactly right can lead to anxiety, stress, and burnout. By letting go of perfection, you open yourself up to new ideas, experimentation, and innovation. Sometimes the best outcomes come from unexpected or messy paths.

“Perfectionism is a self destructive and addictive belief system that fuels this primary thought: If I look perfect, and do everything perfectly, I can avoid or minimize the painful feelings of shame, judgment, and blame.” ~ Brené Brown

If you're constantly trying to perfect every detail, it can prevent you from completing tasks or moving forward. Embracing "good enough" helps you finish projects, make progress, and be more productive. Furthermore, accepting imperfection helps you develop a healthier relationship with yourself.  

“Understanding the difference between healthy striving and perfectionism is critical to laying down the shield and picking up your life. Research shows that perfectionism hampers success. In fact, it's often the path to depression, anxiety, addiction, and life paralysis.” ~ Brené Brown

Affirmation: I am enough, and what I do is enough.

10. Judgment of Self and Others

Letting go of judgment, both of yourself and others, is something that can bring you a lot of peace and clarity. It involves a deep acceptance of things as they are, without the need to label or critique them constantly. Why do you feel the need to judge in the first place? Is it to protect yourself, to feel in control, or because of past conditioning? Sometimes understanding the deeper root of the judgment can help dismantle its power.

“If someone isn't what others want them to be, the others become angry. Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives, but none about his or her own.” ~ Paulo Coelho

When you catch yourself being self-critical, pause and ask yourself how you would treat a friend in the same situation. What feels like a failure or misstep today may look different tomorrow. Additionally, for both yourself and others, forgiving is a way of releasing the need for judgment.

“How would your life be different if…You stopped making negative judgmental assumptions about people you encounter? Let today be the day…You look for the good in everyone you meet and respect their journey.” ~ Steve Maraboli

Affirmations: I love and accept myself, and I choose to see the good in others.

These 10 things may be holding you back from living the vibrant, happy, and healthy life you deserve. Letting go won’t happen overnight, but with patience, self-compassion, and commitment, you can release what no longer serves you. Take it one step at a time and watch how your life transforms.

10 Things You Should Embrace to Live a Happier and Healthier Life

Life is all about balance – just like the transition from winter to summer, we can make room for positive changes by letting go of what no longer serves us. Here are 10 things you should embrace to enhance your happiness and well-being.

1.      Self-Love and Self-Compassion

Embracing self-love and self-compassion is an important and beautiful journey to go on. It can transform how you view yourself and the world around you. These also form a solid foundation for genuine self-confidence. Also, take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognising progress reinforces the love and appreciation you have for yourself.

“Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” ~ Louise L. Hay

Affirmation: I am kind to myself because I love myself.

2.      Gratitude

Embracing gratitude can have a profound impact on your happiness and overall well-being. When you focus on what you’re thankful for, your brain begins to shift its attention from what's wrong to what’s right in your life. It’s normal to feel like embracing gratitude is difficult at times, especially when life feels tough. However, just like any habit, it takes practice. Take time each day to appreciate what you have and those around you. It could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee or a kind gesture from someone.

“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” ~ Eckhart Tolle

Affirmation: I am grateful for all I have and all I continue to receive, with harm to no being.

3.      Mindfulness

Mindfulness can really transform how we experience life. It's about being present, accepting things as they are without judgment, and focusing on the moment rather than getting caught up in the past or future.

A simple and effective way to begin practicing mindfulness is by focusing on your breath. Try taking a few minutes each day to sit quietly and breathe slowly and deeply. Many people rush through their meals or eat while distracted. Try eating mindfully by paying full attention to the texture, taste, and aroma of your food. Savour each bite and listen to your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Whether through yoga, tai chi, or simply stretching, physical movement can bring you into the present moment. No matter what you’re doing (walking, talking to a friend, washing the dishes) bring your attention to the sensations, sounds, and sights around you.

Our screens often take us away from the present moment. Try setting aside time each day to disconnect from digital devices. This could be during meals, before bed, or just as a dedicated time for relaxation. It gives your mind a chance to reset.

“Life is a dance. Mindfulness is witnessing that dance.” ~ Amit Ray

Affirmation: I engage with my life because I love it.

4.      Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges, adapt to adversity, and grow stronger through difficult times. Developing this skill can significantly impact your mental health, relationships, and ability to handle life's inevitable ups and downs. Resilience starts with a positive mindset. This doesn’t mean ignoring hardships, but rather choosing to see challenges as opportunities for growth. Reframing setbacks as temporary, manageable, and surmountable can strengthen your mental fortitude.

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity. It’s also about taking care of yourself so that you’re equipped to handle life’s challenges. Make sure you're prioritising rest, exercise, nutrition, and relaxation. Building resilience is a process, not something that happens overnight. There will be ups and downs, and that's completely normal. Be patient with yourself, and acknowledge each step forward.

“I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” ~ William Ernest Henley

Affirmation: I am resilient, and I know I will grow and succeed.

5.      Flexibility and Adaptability

Embracing flexibility and adaptability is such a valuable skill for creating a happier and healthier life. Life often presents unexpected changes, challenges, and transitions, and being flexible allows you to navigate those situations with less stress and greater peace. Adaptability helps you thrive in the face of uncertainty, empowering you to approach life with a positive and open mindset.

When you embrace change with curiosity and openness, it can lead to personal growth, new experiences, and better ways of doing things. The more flexible you are, the more you can learn from what’s happening around you. Developing your problem-solving skills helps you approach challenges with confidence. Additionally, if you’re able to let go of the need for everything to be perfect, you’ll be much more adaptable.

“Wisdom requires a flexible mind.” ~ Dan Carlin

Affirmation: I am flexible and adaptable, thriving with every change and challenge.

6.      Connection with Others

Embracing connection with others truly has a profound impact on mental and physical well-being. Building strong, healthy relationships (family, friends, hobby and sport acquaintances, etc) provides a sense of belonging and support that can help you navigate life.

Engaging with others broadens your perspective, challenges your views, and encourages personal growth. It's also a great way to learn new things and deepen your empathy. Having people you can lean on during tough times helps reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. Just talking through challenges can make a huge difference to some people. Being surrounded by people who want the best for you will also encourage and celebrate you when needed.

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” ~ Marcel Proust

Affirmations: I am surrounded by loving, supportive, and honest people. I am so thankful.

7.      Curiosity

Curiosity keeps life exciting! Trying new things, whether it’s a new hobby, exploring a new place, or learning something unfamiliar, can bring joy and fulfilment into your life. When you’re open to learning, you become more comfortable not being the smartest person in the room. Curiosity allows you to engage more deeply with the world around you, be more open to new experiences, and cultivate a sense of wonder in the everyday. It encourages personal growth and keeps you mentally active, both of which encourage you to invest in yourself.

Being curious helps you stay in the present moment (mindful living). Rather than rushing through life, you start to notice the beauty and uniqueness of each experience, no matter how small.

“Pursue what catches your heart, not what catches your eyes.” ~ Roy T. Bennett

Affirmation:  I love learning and being curious about life and me. 

8.      Open-Mindedness

When you approach life with an open mind, you become more flexible and adaptable to change, less judgmental, and more accepting of different perspectives. Essentially, you're more likely to accept life as it comes, understanding that things may not always go as planned, and that’s okay.

Another aspect is that being open to different ideas and perspectives can help you see things about yourself that you might not have considered, leading to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

“The mind is just like a muscle - the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets and the more it can expand.” ~ Idowu Koyenikan

Affirmation: I am open to new ideas, experiences, and opportunities.

9.      Personal Growth

Personal growth is all about continuous self-improvement, whether it's emotionally, mentally, physically, or spiritually. When you focus on growth, you’re likely to engage in healthier habits, such as exercise, mindfulness practices, and better nutrition. As you grow, you become more open to new experiences, which can lead to exciting opportunities in your career, relationships, and personal life. Furthermore, this helps you develop new skills, and in turn, build confidence in your abilities.

Personal growth often involves becoming more self-aware, understanding your emotions better, and learning how to regulate them. This emotional intelligence can improve your relationships and your ability to cope with difficult situations. Additionally, working on personal growth helps you clarify what matters most to you. This sense of purpose can drive your decisions and actions, leading to a more meaningful and happier life.

“Great things happen to those who don't stop believing, trying, learning, and being grateful.” ~ Roy T. Bennett

Affirmation: I invest in myself because I deserve to be the best version of myself.

10. Authenticity

Embracing authenticity is a truly powerful way to create a happier and healthier life. When you live authentically, you're not trying to fit into anyone else's mould or meet external expectations – you’re living in alignment with your true self. You accept who you are, flaws and all. This self-acceptance leads to greater self-esteem and peace of mind.

Being authentic empowers you to make choices that reflect who you really are. This builds confidence because you feel in control of your life, making decisions that truly resonate with you rather than what others expect of you. When you’re authentic, you're also more likely to attract people who resonate with your true self, leading to deeper and more genuine and meaningful relationships. This mindset can deeply impact your emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.

“Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.” Brene Brown

Affirmations: I love who I am, and I live authentically every day.

As you embrace these 10 practices, remember that change takes time. Expanding your comfort zone and shifting your mindset may feel uncomfortable at first, but every step forward is progress. Celebrate the small wins and be patient with yourself. Embracing these principles will help you create a richer, more fulfilling life.

The journey to a happier and healthier life is one of progress (not perfection). Embracing these 20 practices is an ongoing process of self-discovery, growth, and adaptation. It takes time, patience, and consistent effort, but the rewards are worth it. As you gradually weave these habits into your daily life, you’ll begin to notice a profound shift in your mindset, your relationships, and your overall happiness. Celebrate each step forward, and remember, you're building a life that aligns with your true self. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process of becoming the best version of yourself.

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