January has come and gone, along with the rush of “New Year, New You” messages and the pressure to set resolutions. Maybe you made some resolutions, or perhaps you skipped doing so altogether. Personally, I’ve never been one to make resolutions. Either way, reality sets in by February, and motivation often starts to wane. By the second week in February, 90% of New Year’s resolutions fizzle out.
Real change comes from small, intentional choices. As a surgeon, I’ve seen how these daily decisions shape long-term health and well-being. While forming new habits is valuable, sometimes the key to growth isn’t adding more but letting go of what no longer serves you.
5 Things to Let Go of in 2025
1. Let Go of Ignoring Your Body’s Signals
Your body is constantly communicating with you through aches, fatigue, and other subtle (or not-so-subtle) signs. Ignoring these signals can lead to bigger problems down the road. That persistent pain, recurring headache, or exhaustion isn’t something to push through. This year, commit to listening to your body and seeking medical attention when something feels off.
At age 52, I experienced chest pain while in the operating room. Despite being healthy and exercising regularly, I ignored the signals my body gave me for most of the day. I dismissed them as heartburn. When I finally went in, I was diagnosed with a coronary dissection, which is similar to but not your typical heart attack. I don’t want to think about what may have happened if I had continued to ignore them.
2. Let Go of Skipping Preventative Care
As a surgeon, I can’t stress enough how critical early detection is. Preventative care saves lives, whether it’s a routine screening, a mammogram, or a colonoscopy. Yet, too many people put these appointments off, thinking, “I’ll get to it later.” Make this the year you prioritize those check-ups. Prevention is always easier and less invasive, more so than treatment.
My brother-in-law delayed getting a colonoscopy for a year. When he finally went, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Thankfully, he’s doing well today. But it’s a powerful reminder: we often avoid thinking about things we don’t want to face. Yet, by putting off what feels like an inconvenience, we risk overlooking what truly matters in the bigger picture.
3. Let Go of the “All or Nothing” Mentality
One of the biggest barriers I see to long-term health is that you have to be perfect at doing it all. Perfection isn’t required for you to be healthy. It’s not about never eating carbs or desserts, working out every day, or overhauling your life. Making small, consistent changes is what leads to sustainable results.
Being a surgeon is a demanding job, and some days it feels overwhelming to prioritize eating well and staying active. On those long days, I find small opportunities to move, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking my dogs when I get home. These small actions remind me that doing something is better than doing nothing. Of course, there are days when it doesn’t happen, but I try not to let those days add up.
Health isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress.
4. Let Go of Neglecting Your Mental Health
As a surgeon, I know the body and mind are deeply connected. Chronic stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep take a toll on your physical health, weakening your immune system and slowing recovery. Yet, mental health often takes a backseat to other priorities.
This year, things to let go of in 2025 include neglecting your mental health and embracing self-care practices like meditation, yoga, journaling, or taking yourself out for a solo date of coffee and a good book. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health.
Yoga and nature are two things that improve my mental health.
If you’re unsure where to start, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provides practical self-care strategies to help you manage stress, improve resilience, and support your overall mental well-being.
5. Let Go of the Idea That It’s Too Late to Change
One of the most detrimental beliefs I see is the idea that it’s “too late” to make a change. Whether eating healthier or exercising, it’s never too late to take action. Each day is an opportunity to take small steps toward your goals.
Don’t let old habits or age define what you can do today and move forward. Let this year be the year you stop getting in your own way and start moving forward.
A Healthier and More Fulfilling 2025
As we move through this year, I encourage you to reflect on the things to let go of in 2025 and embrace the small, consistent actions that will move you forward. Letting go isn’t always easy, but on the other hand, it is the healthier, more fulfilling life you deserve.
Your health is your most valuable asset, and every decision you make shapes your future. Here’s to a year of listening to your body, embracing change, and taking steps toward your best self, whether big or small.
Providing you care beyond the visit ~
Dr. Cindy Geocaris