6 Ways To Let Go Of A Past Version Of Yourself That You’ve Outgrown
I think we’re all a little guilty of holding onto some things that no longer serve us a little longer than we should. It’s especially hard when you’re holding onto a past version of yourself that you’ve outgrown.
We are always continuing to evolve and grow - as humans, we pretty much never stay the same. You’ll know when you’ve outgrown yourself when you no longer desire or align with some things you once yearned for. And that’s a good thing - we’re always improving and becoming better versions of ourselves. But, it’s important to let the old you go so you have room to flourish.
Having strategies and habits to help you as you’re going through this process of changing is important to move into this new version of yourself, while making peace with your past self.
Give yourself time and space to process your emotions
It’s okay to feel a certain way about letting go of your past self. Sometimes, it may even feel like you’re grieving that version of yourself. It’s not always going to be easy. So give yourself grace, and allow yourself to process the thoughts and feelings you have about it. Don’t push them away or bury them. Let it all out and work through them. Grow through what you go through.
Practice mindfulness
It’s important to practice mindfulness throughout this process. Be present and in the moment, and don’t dawn on the past. Of course, ignoring your past self won’t do you any good - but don’t cling onto it. Be aware of what you’re going through and do your best to live in the moment. This will help you create space for this new version of yourself, while allowing you to let go of the past you.
Create healthy habits that embody your current self
To focus on your current self, create new habits for this new version. The habits you had before may not fit anymore with your new you. So rework any habits that you don’t align with anymore to encompass your current self and values. Continuing improving them to fit your needs and what works best for you NOW.
Practice positive self-talk
How you talk to yourself matters. Practice positive self-talk that resonates with your current self. Affirm that you are exactly where you need to be. Embrace this new version of yourself for everything that it is. Even if you aren’t used to it yet, it’s important to affirm that you are on the right path. Practice self-compassion as you navigate the lows and highs of this transitional period.
Make space for the new
You need to create space for the new, mentally and physically. Get rid of old beliefs and rewrite them into new ones. Work on freeing up mental space and create a new outlook that fits the new version of you.
Declutter or get rid of physical items that no longer serve you. Physically making room will help your mental state throughout this process. You also don’t need to hold onto items that don’t fit the current you.
Be patient
Be patient with this process. The process isn’t linear, there will be bumps and ups and downs, so be gentle with yourself. It won’t always be easy and you may hit road-blocks in your feelings. Remind yourself that it’s a process and a journey. It takes time to get through. That's the beauty of it. Trust that everything is happening the way it’s supposed to.
Letting go of a past version of yourself that you’ve outgrown isn’t easy, but having some strategies to help you through the process will make it more manageable. You’re not defined by your past, but it did contribute to who you are today. Accept this new version of yourself and the new chapter you’re entering. Once you finish the transition and fully let go of the old version of yourself, you’ll find so much beauty in your personal transformation.
