If you want to be happy and fulfilled in 5 years, stop doing these things

Ava Sinclair by Ava Sinclair | September 16, 2024, 5:42 pm

Hey there! Are you aiming to be a lot happier in the next five years? You’ve come to the right spot.

Some of these things are so small, we hardly notice we’re doing them. But trust us, kick these habits to the curb and you’ll start feeling a whole lot better.

Ready to make some changes and set yourself up for a happier future? Buckle up, because we’re about to get started!

1) Stop saying yes to everything

One of the biggest happiness stealers? Overcommitting.

When we say yes to everything, we’re not just filling up our schedules – we’re draining our energy and joy. It’s fantastic to want to help others and be involved, but not at the cost of your own wellbeing.

It’s okay to say no sometimes. You’ll have more time for things that truly matter to you and less stress about juggling too many balls. Give it a try – your future self will thank you.

2) Quit the negative self-talk

We all have that little voice in our heads, the one that loves to point out our mistakes and dwell on the negatives.

Here’s the thing – it’s not helping you. In fact, it’s making you less happy.

So, make a conscious effort to stop the negative self-talk. When you catch yourself thinking something bad about yourself, flip it around. Find something positive instead. It might feel weird at first, but over time, it can make a huge difference.

3) Ditch the constant comparison

Let me share something personal.

I used to constantly compare myself to others. My friends, colleagues, even strangers on the internet. If someone had something I didn’t – a great job, a cool holiday, a beautiful home – I’d feel like I was lacking.

Then I realized something – this constant comparison was only making me unhappy. It was like a race with no finish line.

So I decided to quit. I focused on my own path, my own goals.

And you know what? I’ve never been happier.

Take it from me: ditch the constant comparison. It’s one of the best things you can do for your future happiness.

4) Stop neglecting your physical health

Did you know that our physical health has a massive impact on our happiness? It’s true!

Research says that people who exercise regularly are happier than those who don’t. And it’s not just about looking good – physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters.

If you’ve been neglecting your physical health, whether it’s skipping workouts or eating junk food, it’s time to stop.

5) Let go of grudges

Carrying a grudge is like carrying a heavy backpack. It weighs you down, makes every step harder. And the longer you carry it, the heavier it feels.

Let me tell you – you can choose to let it go.

You can choose to forgive, not for the other person, but for yourself. To free yourself from the burden of resentment.

It’s not always easy, I know. Sometimes it takes time, and that’s okay.

But when you’re ready, let go of the grudge. You’ll feel lighter, happier, more at peace.

6) Stop ignoring your passions

I’ve always loved painting, ever since I was a kid. But as I grew older, life got in the way. Work, responsibilities, and the constant hustle left little time for my passion.

One day, I realized that I hadn’t picked up a paintbrush in months. It was a wake-up call. I decided to carve out time for painting, even if it was just a few minutes each day.

And you know what? It made a huge difference. I felt happier, more fulfilled.

Here’s my advice to you: Don’t ignore your passions. Make time for what you love. It’s not wasted time; it’s an investment in your happiness.

7) Stop trying to please everyone

Here’s the harsh truth: you can’t please everyone. No matter how hard you try, there will always be someone who isn’t happy.

And you know what? That’s okay.

You’re not a doormat. You’re not here to cater to everyone else’s desires at the expense of your own happiness. It’s exhausting, it’s draining, and honestly, it’s not worth it.

So stop. Stop bending over backwards for people who wouldn’t do the same for you. Instead, focus on pleasing one person – yourself. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

8) Stop skimping on sleep

Did you know that lack of sleep can seriously mess with your happiness?

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, sleep deprivation can increase stress, negatively affect mood and even lead to depression.

And guess what? All those late nights and early mornings aren’t doing your future self any favors. If you’ve been burning the midnight oil, it’s time to switch it off. Prioritize your sleep.

9) Quit trying to control everything

I’m a recovering control freak.

I used to think that if I could just control everything – my schedule, my relationships, my environment – I would be happy. But all I ended up with was stress and worry.

Life, as it turns out, is unpredictable. That’s not a bad thing. It’s what makes it exciting, interesting, alive.

I learned to let go. To accept that I can’t control everything.

And you know what? It was liberating. So take it from me: quit trying to control everything. Embrace the unpredictability of life. 

10) Stop being a perfectionist

Perfection is an illusion.

It’s a never-ending chase that leaves you exhausted and unsatisfied. No matter how good you are, you can always be better, right?

Wrong. This mindset can rob you of your confidence and happiness.

Ditch the perfectionism. Embrace your flaws. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. You’re human, and humans aren’t perfect. And that’s perfectly okay.