We’ve all heard the phrase, “Out with the old, in with the new,” right?
How about this one: “What’s new today becomes old tomorrow?” These sayings feel especially relevant this time of year. It’s the season for clearing out the clutter—whether that’s old clothes, expired cosmetics, outdated medicine, or the mysterious leftovers in the fridge. It’s time for the infamous “spring cleaning.”
As I tackle these dreaded chores, I often find myself repeating, “Out with the old, in with the new,” as I toss things into the trash or donation bin. Sure, it’s a tedious task, but it’s also incredibly refreshing—and let’s not forget, it’s healthy to read those old labels before holding onto things we no longer need.
But what if we applied this mindset to ourselves?
What if we took this time to say, “Out with the old, in with the new me”? What if we tore off the outdated labels, we’ve been carrying around about ourselves? Sure, a new haircut, outfit, or even a car can feel transformative—but let’s face it, all those “new” things eventually become old too.
Isn’t it funny how our bodies age, yet our minds sometimes cling to the belief that we’re still in our twenties? We push ourselves to do things we once did effortlessly, only to be reminded—often painfully—that our bodies have moved on. I’ve been there (and paid the price), but it’s taught me a valuable lesson: True renewal starts within.
So, how about a fresh start? A real new you?
This doesn’t have to mean a dramatic reinvention. It could be as simple as trying a new hobby, embarking on a new adventure, or stepping outside your comfort zone. If you’re like me, that comfort zone can feel like a cozy safety net—but growth happens when we venture beyond it.
How do we start? Baby steps.
What if we made a list of new things to try—one each month? It doesn’t have to be life-changing; just something that piques your curiosity. If you live near a beautiful mountain, why not explore it? Maybe there’s a club you’ve thought about joining—Pickleball, Bocce Ball, or Tennis, perhaps? Or, if golf has always seemed intimidating but is right in your backyard, why not give it a shot? (No judgment here if you’re like me and have been avoiding lessons!)
For many of us, the biggest hurdle is procrastination. Guilty as charged! But let’s be honest: procrastination is often just a pile of excuses, isn’t it? Some may be valid, but most are probably just fear of trying something new. What if one of the old labels we tore off this year was procrastination itself? Imagine the possibilities.
Here’s an idea: Make two lists. On one, write down the things you love about yourself. On the other, jot down the things you’d like to change. Then, focus on growing what you love. As you expand the positive, you might find that the old, unwanted traits start to fade away naturally.
So, let’s raise a glass to this idea: “Out with the old, in with the new!” Whether it’s clearing out closets or rediscovering ourselves, there’s something deeply satisfying about starting fresh.
I’m ready to give it a shot—how about you?