Let’s be honest; modern culture encourages us to juggle many things simultaneously. So naturally, doing the opposite can make you feel like a failure, but only if you allow it…

For those who have reclaimed their time and energy, it feels empowering to let go of things and simplify their life.

Believe me, I’ve been there. Not long ago, I was stuck in the cycle of constantly adding more—new goals, new habits, new commitments—even when my life was bursting at the seams. 

So what changed?

I chose to leave behind multiple habits, time drains, negative influences, and unhealthy patterns.

And let me tell you what I’ve learned – the real magic lies in what we quit!

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed and weighed down, join me on this personal journey where I share what you need to let go of to find more space, calm, and clarity.

Habits & Mindsets

1. Perfectionism

Perfectionism often seems admirable. It feels like we’re holding ourselves to a high standard, refusing to settle for anything less than our best. 

But in reality, it keeps us stuck, wasting time and energy on tiny details that don’t really matter. 

For a long time, I believed that something wasn’t worth doing if it wasn’t perfect. This mindset held me back in all areas of my life, leaving me exhausted and constantly second-guessing myself.

Eventually, I shifted my focus to “progress over perfection,” letting go of the need for everything to be flawless. Now I ask myself, “Is it good enough to get the job done?” If yes, I move on. 

This simple change has freed up my time and energy, allowing me to enjoy the process rather than obsess over the outcome.

2. People-Pleasing

The problem with people-pleasing is that we often mistake it for kindness, not realizing that we’re actually putting everyone else’s needs ahead of our own.

I remember when I would say “yes” to everything, even when it meant sacrificing my well-being. Over time, this habit made me feel drained and resentful and I realized I was giving away pieces of myself to keep others happy.

Learning to prioritize my needs felt uncomfortable initially, but it’s been empowering. Instead of automatically agreeing, I now ask myself if saying “yes” aligns with what I truly want. 

Setting these boundaries has brought me more peace, self-respect, and freedom than people-pleasing ever did.

Time Drains

Another thing you must let go of to regain control over your life is things that drain your time. These distractions and commitments fill up our day but don’t add value, such as…

3. Over-Committing

I used to say “yes” to almost everything—work projects, social gatherings, and countless obligations that didn’t align with my priorities. But overcommitting left me feeling overwhelmed and depleted, with little time or energy for myself.

Eventually, I realized the importance of setting boundaries. 

Learning to say “no” was initially challenging, but it’s a skill that gets easier with practice. 

Now, before I commit to something, I ask myself if it truly aligns with my goals or brings me joy. If the answer is no, I pass. 

This shift has helped me focus on what really matters and reclaim my time and energy.

4. Unnecessary Social Media

Social media can be a huge time drain. It’s easy to get sucked into scrolling, only to look up and realize an hour (or more) has slipped by. 

I wasn’t just guilty of doing this during the day; I’d even check my phone before bed. I’d tell myself it’d just be a quick peek, only to end up staying awake much later than planned.

Setting strict limits on my phone was a game changer. I now completely avoid social media before bed and stick to designated times to check it during the day. Cutting down has freed up my time and helped me stay more present.

Negative Influences

Next up is negative influences. These are the people, behaviors, and thoughts that drain our energy and keep us stuck in negative patterns, and I bet as you’re reading this you’re already thinking of a few of your own.

5. Toxic Relationships

When someone constantly brings negativity into your life or drains your energy, consider whether that relationship is worth holding onto. Because here’s the truth – sometimes, letting go is the best way to make space for people who bring positivity into your life.

For example, I once had a friendship that felt more like a chore than a connection. Every time we hung out, I left feeling drained and tense. 

Let me tell you that saying goodbye to that relationship wasn’t easy! BUT it opened up room for new friendships that now genuinely lift me up.

6. Negative Self Talk

Not all negative influences come from external sources – sometimes, they originate a little closer to home – in our minds.

But the tricky thing about negative self-talk is it’s so sneaky we often don’t recognize it. 

We tell ourselves we’re just being realistic when we’re actually criticizing ourselves. And the more we allow this toxic influence, the more it damages our confidence and mindset.

While stopping negative self-talk isn’t easy, it is possible. And once you finally change that inner dialogue, you’ll feel so much more empowered and focused.

Unhealthy Patterns

You know those bad habits you’ve got into, and although you know they don’t serve you, you can’t seem to shake them off?

These are the ‘unhealthy patterns,’ which can be tricky to identify and let go of. 

7. Overworking

For years, I believed working harder and clocking in extra hours was the secret to success. But eventually, I learned that overworking wasn’t helping me—it was holding me back. 

Rather than producing my best work, I was wearing myself down, losing focus, and constantly running on empty. 

However, when I started setting clear boundaries between work and personal time, I found that I could dive into my tasks with renewed energy and focus. 

I became more efficient and even discovered time for hobbies, friends, and relaxation—all things I’d unintentionally sidelined.

8. Letting go of constant worrying has been one of the most transformative shifts in my life—though it’s still a work in progress. 

For so long, I let my mind spin over endless “what-ifs” and worst-case scenarios, draining my energy and leaving me anxious and exhausted.

Eventually, I realized that all this worry wasn’t helping me prepare or stay in control; it was just keeping me stuck in fear. 

When worries arise now, I ask myself, “Is this something I can change?” If the answer is no, I redirect my focus to something constructive or ground myself in the present. 

It’s not always easy, but each time I let go of an unnecessary worry, I make room for a little more peace and clarity.

Final Thoughts

If this article makes you feel inspired and empowered, I invite you to watch the full video episode on YouTube, where I share three more things I quit to simplify my life!

Now it’s your time to share – What have you let go of to free up your time, energy, and mind?

Let me know in the comments!

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