What I’m Leaving in 2024 and Bringing Into 2025

The new year is a perfect time for self-reflection, setting intentions, and leaving behind the things that no longer serve us. I’m sharing my personal list of five habits and mindsets that are getting the boot in 2024 and the empowering changes I’m embracing for 2025. Let’s get into it! 

Note: The YouTube version of this post is here.

1. OUT: Comparing Myself to Others

We’ve all heard the saying: Comparison is the thief of joy. And guess what? It’s true! In the past, I’ve fallen into the trap of setting goals based on what others are doing. Whether it was someone’s reading goal or their fitness journey, I’d compare myself and start setting unrealistic expectations. For instance, as a beginner runner, I’d see people on TikTok posting their mile times and think, Why isn’t my pace that fast?

Comparing ourselves to others robs us of joy and creates unnecessary stress. So in 2024, I’m leaving comparison behind. My journey is unique, and so is yours. Let’s focus on our own process, goals, and progress in 2025. Life is already stressful – why make it harder by measuring ourselves against others?

2. OUT: Guessing How Others Feel

You know what’s exhausting? Trying to manage other people’s emotions. In 2024, I’m officially retiring my position as an anxious mind reader. For years, I’ve overthought how my actions might affect others, tiptoeing around potential reactions. It’s mentally draining!

As adults, we’re responsible for communicating how we feel. I’m no longer investing my brain energy into interpreting other people’s feelings or overanalyzing their words. Of course, I’ll continue to be empathetic and build positive relationships, but I’m leaving behind the unnecessary overthinking. In 2025, I’m taking things at face value and prioritizing my peace of mind.

3. OUT: Saving My Clothes for a “Special Occasion”

Every day is an occasion! In 2025, I’m embracing this fully. This year, I cleaned out my closet and realized how many clothes I own but never wear. Why? Because I’ve been saving them for some undefined special moment that rarely comes. Enough of that!

I’ve started wearing my clothes unapologetically, and it feels amazing. For instance, today, I’m wearing a shirt that belonged to my mom – and it’s giving me so much joy. Whether it’s a bold dress or a cozy sweater, I’m committed to wearing what makes me feel good. So grab that fur coat and wear it to Target. Life’s too short to wait for “the right time.” The time is now!

4. OUT: Being Lukewarm

In 2025, I’m turning up the heat. Lukewarm energy is out! I recently heard a quote in church that stuck with me: People are attracted to fire, not things that are lukewarm. It made me reflect on how I show up in life, whether in dance class, on social media, or even in my day-to-day interactions.

I’ve realized that I’ve been holding back. When I’m dancing, for example, I’ve been going through the motions instead of fully embodying the performance. But no more! This year, I’m embracing passion and energy in everything I do. I’m acting like the woman I aspire to be, the future me who is confident, bold, and unstoppable.

5. OUT: Not Having Fun

As someone who’s passionate about self-development, I’ve spent years focused on optimizing and pushing myself. But let’s be real – it’s easy to lose sight of fun when you’re always in “work mode.” In 2025, I’m prioritizing joy.

That means taking intentional breaks, celebrating my milestones, and enjoying the life I’ve worked so hard to build. Fun isn’t reckless – it’s necessary. I’m making space for road trips, nights out with friends, and guilt-free downtime. Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – the five things I’m leaving in 2024 and the shifts I’m bringing into 2025. From ditching comparison and overthinking to fully embracing fun and passion, I’m excited for the year ahead.

What about you? What are you leaving behind in 2024, and what are you welcoming into 2025? Let me know in the comments or on social media – I’d love to hear from you!

And don’t forget to check out my latest vlog, where I tackled my closet cleanout and shared more about this journey. Remember, every day is the occasion, and you are the fire. Let’s make 2025 our best year yet!

Until next time, have a positively, productive, self-loving day! Bye, baddies! 💕