The million-dollar question to get you set up for 2026 – “What do you need less of?” We’ve talked about what in life is bringing you joy and fulfillment (you want more of that), but now we should talk about what you need less of in 2026. Once we know what’s filling us up, it’s equally important to look at what’s draining us, what we need less of in the new year. I want to be clear, this isn’t about cutting everything out or doing a complete life overhaul. It’s about making space for what matters most.

Why “less” is just as important as “more”

We often think growth means adding more… more goals, habits, commitments, all of it. But real growth often comes from subtraction. You might be surprised to hear this, because for so long, so many of us have fed into the misconception that in order to grow, you need more.

You can’t pour into what fulfills you if your time, energy, and mind are cluttered. Fulfillment and peace require capacity, and that means letting go of what’s misaligned.

For example:

• Relationships that feel one-sided or draining
• Overcommitment (saying yes out of guilt or habit)
• Hustle, perfectionism, or unrealistic expectations
• Constant comparison or needing to “prove” yourself

For me, I’ve realized that I was spending time doing things out of obligation. I felt like I had to do all the things, and with that came the ‘more’ mentality. Once I realized that and was able to start working on that, I realized it created space for something better. I was able to fill that time with things that felt more aligned, more impactful, and really just made me feel better.

Reflection questions

I want to encourage you to grab a notebook or journal, or reflect on a walk with the following questions to help you decide what you want less of in 2026. 

• What feels heavy, forced, or draining in my life right now?
• What do I consistently feel resentment, exhaustion, or dread?
• What habits or routines no longer serve the version of me I’m becoming?
• Who or what am I trying to please at the expense of my peace?
• What would it look like to release or simplify in that area next year?

Once you’ve answered these questions, write down 1-2 things you’re choosing to release before the new year – mentally, emotionally, or physically. Then ask, “What does letting go create space for?” This might feel tricky at first, especially if there are many things you want to let go of in 2026. Don’t let that discourage you. Practice one small act of release this week. Maybe it’s saying no, delegating something, or clearing your calendar for rest. Whatever it is, try it this week. 

Remember, reflection isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. I want you to enter into 2026 with intention and clarity. Sometimes the best thing we can do for our growth is to stop adding more and start removing what no longer fits.

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