5 Unhelpful Habits You Should Leave in 2022

Old habits die hard but if you’re looking for new year’s resolution ideas, check out 5 unhelpful habits that would be good to break in the upcoming year.

1. Comparing yourself to others

We all compare ourselves to others to a bigger or a smaller extent but if you make it your habit, you’ll find it difficult to celebrate your achievements and feel grateful for what you have. When you stop worrying about what other people are doing, you’ll feel a lot happier with yourself.

2. Multitasking

In a world where productivity is more rewarded than anything else, it’s easy to fall victim to multitasking. Unfortunately, juggling too many things at once only means that you’re getting less done and risk feeling mentally exhausted. In addition, multitasking prevents you from being in the present and enjoying the moment for what it is.

3. Using distractions to cope

Whenever something bad happens in your life, it’s easy to just turn to a distraction to stop yourself from working through those emotions, whether it’s scrolling on social media or watching Netflix to numb the pain. But burying negative emotions won’t make them disappear and might mean they’ll come back with more force when you least expect it. In 2023, the goal is to learn how to sit down with your thoughts and emotions even when they feel uncomfortable.

4. Prioritising work over mental health

The pressure to be productive all the time might be motivating but it also means that we’re less likely to maintain a life-work balance. When you spend too much time working and don’t give yourself a chance to have a break, you’re at more risk of burning out and might end up suffering from mental health problems. Even if you love your job, it’s important to listen to your body and step back when it needs rest.  

5. Focusing on the negatives

It’s human nature to scan the environment for signs of threat; many years ago, humans had to be vigilant to keep themselves safe. But since the times have changed and we no longer have to protect ourselves from being attacked by wild animals, this habit does more harm than good. When you constantly focus on the negatives, you’re robbing yourself of a chance to enjoy life. For example, when you feel anxious about giving a performance you might have little room left for being excited about it too. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be ashamed to ask for help. Contact My Family Psychologist to see how we can help