Improve peace of mind by giving up bad habits

It’s difficult to have a peaceful mind in a world where so much is happening. If not the wars and ethnic clashes, there are work, money, health and family-related issues that can steal your calm. Some people try to meditate or do yoga, but there is more you can do. Begin by spotting the bad habits that are not letting you find peace of mind. Once you know the bad habits, get ready to give them up. After all, peace of mind is important for your mental health!

Negative thoughts can harmful for your mind, and so Health Shots consulted Gurugram-based clinical psychologist Aishwarya Raj to know unhealthy habits one needs to give up.

Habits that are bad for peace of mind

What is peace of mind? It is a state where there is inner calm, tranquility and freedom from mental or emotional disturbance. It is a sense of contentment and harmony within yourself, where worries, anxieties, and stresses are minimised or managed well. According to the expert, having peace of mind often involves having a positive mindset, being present in the moment, and experiencing a sense of fulfillment and balance in various aspects of life. Here are some habits that can be harmful for peace of mind:

1. Dwelling on the past

Continuously thinking about past mistakes, regrets or negative experiences can keep your mind trapped in a cycle of negativity. It prevents you from fully focusing on the present and finding peace.

2. Worrying about the future

Constantly worrying about what might happen in the future can create anxiety and stress, taking away your peace of mind. While it’s important to plan and prepare, excessive worrying about things beyond your control can be harmful, says the expert.

3. Overthinking

Over-analysing situations, overthinking, replaying conversations or events over and over again in your mind, and creating hypothetical scenarios can lead to mental exhaustion and restlessness. It can be challenging to find peace when your mind is constantly running in circles.

4. Holding grudges

Holding onto grudges, resentment, or anger towards others can eat up your mental and emotional energy. It keeps negative emotions alive, making it difficult to experience peace of mind.

5. Comparing yourself to others

Some might have more than you and others might have less. But comparing yourself to others, especially in terms of achievements, possessions, or social status, can make you feel inadequate and dissatisfied.

6. Seeking validation from others

Relying excessively on external validation for your self-worth can make you feel insecure and constantly anxious about others’ opinions. Finding peace of mind requires cultivating self-acceptance and self-validation.

7. Neglecting self-care

Ignoring your physical, mental, and emotional well-being can lead to stress, exhaustion, and a lack of peace.

8. Multi-tasking excessively

It’s good to multi-task, but trying to juggle too many tasks simultaneously can affect your focus, increase stress levels and hinder productivity, says Raj. It’s important to find a balance and prioritize tasks to maintain a sense of calm and clarity.

9. Being overly critical of yourself

Engaging in negative self-talk, focusing a lot on your flaws, or setting unrealistic expectations can steal peace of mind.

10. Clutter and disorganization

Living or working in a cluttered, disorganized environment can contribute to mental chaos and stress.

You can engage in mindfulness exercises and meditation to calm your mind, increase self-awareness, and promote inner peace. Also, don’t forget to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is crucial for finding peace of mind. And it goes without saying, identify and address the sources of stress in your life.