10 Things You Think You Need That Are Actually Holding You Back

What if “more” is the very thing slowing you down?

We all carry certain assumptions about what we “need” in order to live a good life.

We chase them. We plan around them. We compare ourselves to others who seem to have more of them.

But not everything we think we need is actually helping us.

Some things weigh us down more than they lift us up. And the longer we cling to them, the more they quietly hold us back from the life we actually want.

Here are ten things that might be doing just that.

1. A perfectly clean house before you can relax

Peace isn’t something we earn by completing a checklist. It’s something we allow ourselves, even when the floor still needs sweeping.

If you find yourself constantly waiting until everything is spotless to exhale, ask yourself: what if “clean enough” is actually enough?

2. A busy schedule to feel accomplished

Busyness has become a badge of honor. But constant motion can actually keep us from what matters most.

You weren’t made to be busy—you were made to be present. Slowing down doesn’t mean you’re falling behind. It might mean you’re finally catching up to your life.

3. More money to be happy

The idea that “just a little more” will finally bring contentment is a story that never ends. The finish line keeps moving.

What if you already have enough?

4. The approval of others

It’s natural to want to be liked. But building your life around others’ expectations will eventually pull you away from your own values.

Letting go of people-pleasing isn’t selfish—it’s a return to who you actually are.

5. Travel plans that mimic your friends

Scrolling through someone else’s vacation can make your weekend at home feel inadequate. But travel doesn’t have to be photogenic to be meaningful.

Wanderlust isn’t about replication—it’s about discovery. And simple travel often creates the richest memories.

6. Constant productivity

We glorify hustle. But when every moment is optimized, there’s no room left to breathe.

Rest isn’t a reward for finishing everything. It’s part of a life well-lived. Step off the treadmill and give yourself permission to be still.

7. A full closet for “just in case”

Every piece of clothing you keep “just in case” adds one more decision to your day. And decision fatigue is real.

Less clothing often means more clarity—and a closet that works for your actual life.

8. A specific parenting style to get it “right”

The parenting space is filled with voices, methods, and “must-dos.” But formulas rarely fit real families.

Your child doesn’t need a system—they need your presence. Slow, imperfect parenting is often the most loving kind.

9. Technology at your fingertips 24/7

Endless access doesn’t mean better connection. It usually just means less margin.

Unplugging now and then gives your brain space to think—and your soul space to breathe.

10. A detailed plan before you start

We often wait to move forward until everything is figured out. But most clarity only comes after we begin.

You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need the courage to take one small step today.

Sometimes the things we think are helping us—are the very things standing in our way. What can you release today?