In life, we all make decisions, some of which we regret in hindsight. These regrets could stem from letting go of certain things that had the potential to bring us happiness, success, or personal growth. This topic matters because we could learn a lot from the things we let go and the impact they had on our lives.
Take a trip down memory lane with me as I share 12 things I wish I’d never let go, hoping it will inspire you to cherish or reassess the things you have before they are lost.
1. Reading Habit
I used to be an avid reader but somewhere along the way, I let go of this habit. Reading not only broadens our mind but also offers an escape from reality, which is sometimes much needed.
In my case, books were my best friends. They allowed me to explore different worlds, cultures, and perspectives. They also enhanced my creativity and imagination. However, as life got busier, reading took a back seat. In retrospect, I wish I hadn’t let go of this habit. So, if you still enjoy reading, make sure you find time for it. It’s an investment in yourself.
2. Childhood Friends
Maintaining friendships as we grow older can sometimes be challenging. We all get caught up in the whirlwind of life and lose touch. I wish I’d never let go of my childhood friends because there’s a unique bond that comes from growing up together.
Childhood friends share a part of your history, your innocence, and your journey of becoming who you are today. They are the ones who’ve seen your best and worst and loved you anyway. If you still have childhood friends, make an effort to keep them in your life. It’s a treasure worth keeping.
3. Healthy Eating Habits
I used to be very conscious of what I ate. However, as work and responsibilities increased, convenience took precedence over health. I wish I’d never let go of my healthy eating habits.
Eating healthy not only aids in maintaining a good physique but also contributes to a positive mental state. It helps boost productivity and wards off diseases. If you are someone who is gradually moving towards unhealthy eating, try to revert. Your future self will thank you.
4. Being Outdoors
I used to spend a lot of time outdoors: hiking, cycling, or just enjoying nature. However, as life got busier, I spent more time indoors, usually in front of screens. I wish I hadn’t let go of the habit of being outdoors.
Being outdoors offers numerous health benefits, including improved mood, increased vitamin D levels, and better concentration. So, if you, like me, have let go of this habit, try to reconnect with nature. Even a simple walk in a park can have a significant impact on your wellbeing.
5. Learning New Skills
In my early years, I was always eager to learn new skills. However, over time, I got comfortable with what I knew and stopped pushing myself to learn more. I wish I hadn’t let go of the habit of learning new skills.
Learning new skills keeps our brain active and enhances our adaptability. It also boosts confidence and increases our chances of success in various areas of life. So, never stop learning. There’s always something new to learn and explore.
6. Regular Exercise
Exercise was a part of my daily routine until I let it slip away. I wish I hadn’t let go of regular exercise as it not only keeps the body fit but also helps maintain mental health.
Regular exercise boosts mood, improves sleep, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. If you’ve let go of this habit, it’s never too late to start again. Start small and gradually increase your exercise time. Your body and mind will thank you.
7. Playing a Musical Instrument
I used to play the guitar, but as life got busier, I stopped. I wish I hadn’t let go of playing a musical instrument.
Playing an instrument is not just a hobby; it can be therapeutic. It helps reduce stress and anxiety and increases patience and discipline. If you’ve left an instrument, consider picking it up again. It’s never too late to rekindle your love for music.
8. Painting
Painting was my refuge, my way to express my feelings. However, as life’s responsibilities increased, I stopped painting. I wish I hadn’t let go of this beautiful form of self-expression.
Painting offers a creative outlet and helps manage stress. It encourages creative thinking and boosts self-esteem. If you’ve let go of painting or any form of art, remember, art is a beautiful escape from reality. Consider making it a part of your life again.
9. Volunteering
Volunteering was something I did regularly in my younger years. But as life became busier, I stopped. I wish I hadn’t let go of volunteering as it was a way to give back to society and gain a sense of accomplishment.
Volunteering offers a sense of purpose and can be a great way to connect with others. It helps improve mental health and wellbeing. If you’ve let go of volunteering, consider getting back to it. There’s always someone who could use your help.
10. Mindfulness
I used to practice mindfulness regularly. However, as life got busier, I stopped. I wish I hadn’t let go of this practice.
Mindfulness helps reduce stress, improves focus, and promotes a more enjoyable life. It helps us stay present and appreciate life as it is. If you’ve let go of this practice, try to incorporate it back into your daily routine. A few minutes of mindfulness can make a big difference.
11. Writing Journal
I used to write in my journal every day. It was a way to express my thoughts and feelings. However, as life got busier, I stopped. I wish I hadn’t let go of this habit.
Writing in a journal can be therapeutic. It helps in self-reflection and personal growth. It also improves mental health. If you’ve let go of this habit, consider starting again. It’s a great way to understand yourself better.
12. Believing in Myself
There were times when I doubted my abilities and stopped believing in myself. I wish I hadn’t let go of self-belief.
Believing in oneself is crucial for success in life. It boosts confidence and helps overcome obstacles. If you’ve let go of self-belief, remember, you are capable of more than you think. Always believe in yourself, even when things get tough.
In conclusion, it’s never too late to get back to these things. Each day is a new beginning and a chance to make changes for the better. Remember, life is short, make it count!
