Last week, we talked about goals — why we set them, and how they tend to evolve over time.
This week, I want to shift the focus slightly to something that often gets overlooked: letting go.
When we think about improving our health or creating new habits, the focus is usually on what we should add. More exercise, better nutrition, or a new routine. But sometimes progress has less to do with adding something and more to do with what's getting in the way.
I've been thinking about that question myself lately. Am I adding something new this season, or simply refining what's already there? In many cases, there is more room for positive change when we start clearing out the things that are no longer serving us.
That might look different for everyone, but a few common areas tend to repeatedly come up:
- Habits that drain your time or energy, like procrastination, constant comparison, people-pleasing, and negative self-talk.
- Foods that leave you feeling sluggish or off, especially highly processed options that impact mood and energy
- Relationships that consistently feel one-sided or depleting, where boundaries might need to be strengthened
- Mental patterns like overthinking, holding on to past mistakes, or trying to control situations that are out of your hands
This isn't about being perfect. It's about being honest with yourself and recognizing what might be holding you back. From there, it becomes a matter of deciding what you want to do about it.
For some, that starts with simply acknowledging the pattern. For others, it might mean praying about it, talking it through with someone you trust, or writing it down to see it more clearly. Eventually, though, it comes down to making a decision to stop giving that habit or pattern the same space in your life.
I've been working through this myself over the past year, especially when it comes to alcohol. I haven't completely given it up (I had a Rum Runner in Key West), but I've been more intentional about breaking the habit of automatically pouring a glass of wine in the evening or ordering one without thinking when I'm out. For a long time, it was just routine. Now, it's something I pause and consider, then ultimately decide against.
There are still moments when it comes to mind, especially when I'm experiencing a stressful situation or on vacation (Key West), but it's no longer a knee jerk reaction. That shift alone has made a huge difference in my life, and it's a reminder that change doesn't always have to be extreme to be meaningful.
As you move through this week, you might ask yourself what you've been holding on to that you don't actually need anymore. You don't have to fix everything at once but simply noticing it is a meaningful place to start.
If you've been consistent with your workouts, keep it up rock star. That structure matters more than you think, especially when other areas are in transition.
And if this feels like a season where you're ready to make a few more intentional changes, whether in movement, habits, or lifestyle, I'm always here to help guide that process.
Next week, we'll shift to something a little different — how to build on what's already working.
Take some time this weekend to notice what might be worth letting go. I know I'm going to.