Happiness, we all want it, but sometimes our habits get in the way.

Letting go of certain habits can be the key to unlocking a happier you. Just as you’d declutter your home, decluttering your habits can give you a clear path towards happiness.

Increasing your happiness isn’t about adding more things into your life, it’s about letting go. Just as there are phrases that smart people use to influence others, there are certain habits that happy people don’t have.

So let’s dive into the 13 habits you should consider letting go if you want to increase your happiness. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

1) Overthinking

Overthinking is a common habit that many of us fall into. It can lead to endless cycles of “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios, which can cause unnecessary stress and worry.

Look, we’ve all been there. You find yourself replaying situations in your head or worrying about the future, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a mental maze with no exit in sight.

The thing is, overthinking doesn’t help us solve problems or make decisions. In fact, it often makes things worse by creating problems that weren’t there in the first place.

The key to letting go of this habit is to recognize when you’re doing it and then practice mindfulness techniques to bring your focus back to the present moment.

Remember, the quickest way to happiness is living in the now. Overthinking keeps you trapped in your head, while happiness is found in the world around you. So let go of overthinking and start living in the present. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your happiness.

2) Comparing yourself to others

We’ve all done it, haven’t we? Scrolling through social media, seeing everyone’s highlight reels and suddenly feeling like our own lives don’t quite measure up.

I’ll tell you a little story. A few years back, I found myself constantly comparing my life to those of my peers. They seemed to have it all – successful careers, happy relationships, exciting travels. Meanwhile, I was struggling with my job and felt stuck in a rut.

This constant comparison took a toll on my happiness. It was like I was running a race that had no finish line. No matter how much progress I made, someone else always seemed to be doing better.

Then one day, I decided to let go of this habit. I realized that comparing myself to others was only stealing my joy and preventing me from appreciating my own journey.

So, I started focusing on my own path, setting personal goals and celebrating my achievements, no matter how small. And guess what? My happiness levels shot up.

Remember, the only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday. It’s your journey, your pace. Don’t let someone else’s highlight reel dictate your happiness.

3) Neglecting self-care

Self-care isn’t just about spa days and indulgent treats. It’s about taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Ironically, it’s often the first thing we let slide when life gets busy.

Studies show that people who engage in regular self-care activities – even simple things like taking a walk in nature or reading a book – are less likely to suffer from stress, anxiety, and depression.

When you neglect self-care, you’re not just harming your body; you’re also setting yourself up for emotional burnout. And that’s not a recipe for happiness.

So, start prioritizing self-care. Make time for those activities that relax you, nourish your body, and lift your mood. Your happiness depends on it.

4) Holding on to grudges

Holding on to grudges and past hurts can feel like carrying a heavy backpack everywhere you go. It’s draining, it’s exhausting, and it prevents you from moving forward.

When someone has wronged us, it’s natural to feel hurt and angry. But holding on to those feelings won’t change what happened. It only robs you of your happiness and peace of mind.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean you’re condoning what the other person did. It means you’re choosing to let go of the anger and resentment for your own well-being.

So, if there’s a grudge you’ve been holding on to, consider letting it go. It might be difficult at first, but the freedom and relief that come with forgiveness are well worth it.

5) Ignoring your passions

We all have things that light us up, that make us feel alive and excited. But too often, we put these passions on the back burner, thinking we’ll get to them “someday”.

The thing is, pursuing what you love isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for your happiness. It gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment that few other things can.

So, whether it’s painting, hiking, playing music, or writing poetry, make time for what lights you up. Even if it’s just 15 minutes a day, it can make a world of difference to your happiness.

Don’t wait for “someday” to do what you love. Make “someday” today. Your happiness will thank you for it.

6) Trying to please everyone

The desire to be liked and accepted is a universal one. But trying to please everyone is not only impossible, it’s also exhausting and self-depleting.

The truth is, you can’t be everything to everyone. And that’s okay. What matters most is being true to yourself.

When you constantly bend over backwards to accommodate others, you risk losing sight of who you are and what you stand for. And that’s a surefire way to compromise your happiness.

So don’t be afraid to set boundaries. Say no when you need to. Prioritize your own needs. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but in the long run, standing up for yourself will bring you greater happiness and peace of mind.

Remember, it’s your life. Make choices that align with your values and contribute to your happiness. You owe it to yourself.

7) Avoiding change

Change can be scary. It pushes us out of our comfort zones and forces us to face the unknown.

I remember when I had to move to a new city. The thought of leaving behind my friends, my familiar surroundings, and everything I knew was daunting. I was tempted to stick to the status quo, even though it wasn’t making me happy.

But then I realized that change is a part of life. It’s how we grow and evolve. And sometimes, it’s exactly what we need to shake things up and inject some happiness into our lives.

So, even if it scares you, don’t shy away from change. Embrace it. It might just lead you to a happier, more fulfilling life.

8) Focusing on the negative

It’s easy to get caught in a cycle of negative thinking. Whether it’s dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about the future, negativity can quickly overshadow all the positive aspects of our lives.

But here’s the thing. Happiness is largely a matter of perspective. By focusing on the positive, you can shift your mindset and significantly increase your happiness.

Start by practicing gratitude. Take a few minutes each day to write down what you’re grateful for. This simple habit can help you focus on the good in your life and reduce feelings of negativity.

Remember, even in difficult times, there’s always something to be grateful for. By shifting your focus to the positive, you’ll be taking a big step towards a happier life.

9) Neglecting your relationships

Life gets busy. Work, responsibilities, and endless to-do lists can sometimes leave little time for the people who matter most.

But the truth is, relationships are the bedrock of happiness. Studies show that people with strong social connections are typically happier, healthier, and live longer.

So make time for your loved ones. Cultivate deep, meaningful relationships. Be there for others and allow them to be there for you.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much we have, but how much we’ve loved that truly defines our happiness.

Final thoughts: It’s in your hands

The journey towards happiness is deeply personal and intricate, often intertwined with our habits and choices.

Research indicates that around 40% of our happiness is within our control, shaped by our thoughts, actions, and behaviors. This means that the power to increase your happiness lies largely in your hands.

Letting go of certain habits can be challenging, but it’s crucial to remember that each step you take brings you closer to a happier you.

Whether it’s letting go of overthinking, comparison, neglecting self-care, or any of the other habits we’ve discussed, remember that these changes won’t happen overnight. It’s a journey, not a race.

So take it one day at a time. Celebrate your progress. Be patient with yourself.

In the end, remember that happiness isn’t a destination, but a way of life. It’s about finding joy in the journey and embracing every step of the way.

The key to happiness is in your hands. The choice is yours.