Letting Go to Move Forward

CraftingGlow inspires people to grow artistically and develop problem-solving skills with creative stories about rising to the occasion, and living the best life possible, in spite of challenges life throws our way. Reach out to find out more! craftingglow@gmail.com

**Guest Article by Tina at www.ideaspired.com**

When it comes to improving your personal life, it can sometimes be more about what you stop doing rather than what you start. Certain things you’re doing in your life may be holding you back, such as constantly worrying and putting yourself down. CraftingGlow discusses these and others below.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy

Excessive worrying can trigger fight or flight, which in return can provoke a host of health problems such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and much more. You can use several methods to control anxiety, including the 3-3-3 rule.

Excessive worrying can be harmful as it makes it difficult to focus on reality and think clearly. In addition to its effects on relationships and job performance, among others, feelings of high anxiety can also cause you to be physically ill.

Stop Putting Things Off

Achieving your ultimate goal in life is rarely, if ever, going to be straightforward. The challenges facing people in pursuing their goals are often seen as a step too far, meaning all the ideas and objectives they had, are put on the backburner.

Lifehack points out that strategies to stop putting things off and start getting things done include being specific about what you’d like to accomplish, whether work, relationship or money related, or anything else. Furthermore, make sure your plans are realistic, and no matter what challenges are thrown at you, stick to them.

Get Crafty

Exploring a new hobby frees up your creativity and can open your mind to new avenues of expression. Learning arts and crafts is a wonderful investment in both time and energy. Spectrum Health notes that crafting has many therapeutic benefits including improvement in mood and confidence, as well as a decrease in stress. In fact, working with your hands in an artsy way affects your mind and body much the same way as meditation.

Detox Your Relationships

Love can be likened to an addiction, which is why when relationships become loveless or hostile, they’re tough to walk away from. Cheating, lying, emotional and physical abuse are common signs of toxic relationships. However, there are occasions when symptoms are not so obvious, they just don’t feel right.

Toxic relationships can be saved, assuming, of course, both parties are willing to change. You’ll both need to invest time in making it work and display an attitude of openness. In addition, try to steer the conversation away from blaming and more towards understanding, and don’t be afraid of accepting outside help. If all else fails, don’t be scared to walk away.

Improve Your Quality of Life Through Exercise

If the most exercise you get is moving from the couch to the fridge and back again, you are putting your health at risk. Not getting enough physical activity can lead to heart disease and increase the likelihood of developing obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. 

Exercise doesn’t have to involve going to the gym. The most underrated form of exercise is walking. It’s simple, accessible, and just a 30-minute brisk walk each day can help improve cardiovascular health, bone strength and boost endurance.

Job Burnout

If you’re suffering from job burnout, or simply hate the work you do, consider looking at ways to make a career change. Many people choose to pursue a degree in another field, or an advanced degree in their current line of work like an MBA or master’s in IT. Studying online is more convenient and affordable than ever, which allows you to continue working as you complete coursework.

You could even start your own business. If you do, try and tie it in with the things you love doing. You’ll have more chances of success as your knowledge and passion will be your driving force. 

Throw it to the Curb

Hard habits are hard to break but are often the only way you can move forward. If it doesn’t feel right, throw it to the curb, and live the life you know you deserve.

Image via Unsplash