đź’­ Ready to make changes?

Monday 7/28: Sponsored by Babbel and Carl Friedrik - habits, future self, letting go

Monday

"It’s okay to prioritize peace."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

True or False?

Your identity is something you're born with and never changes.

Scroll for the answer!

The Secret to Lasting Change

Making lasting changes to your habits can be tricky. Often, we focus on actions like eating healthier or exercising more, but the key to real transformation lies in shifting your self-identity.

Instead of “I should be more productive,” try thinking, “I am someone who stays focused and manages my time well.” When you start seeing yourself as that person, your actions begin to reflect it. The result? Change becomes effortless and part of who you are.

This approach taps into how the brain works. When your self-concept matches your goals, it’s easier to make decisions that align with that new identity. For example, someone who identifies as organized may find it easier to stick to their schedule and avoid procrastination.

By focusing on who you want to become, rather than just what you want to do, you can make real progress. So, ask yourself: Who am I becoming? And let that guide your daily actions.

What Would Your Future Self Do?

Making lasting change is about more than willpower. It’s about shifting how you see yourself. Research shows that focusing on who you want to become, rather than what you want to do, is the key to real transformation.

To connect with your future self, start by defining who you want to be. Ask: What does your future self value? What decisions would they make? By identifying with this future version of yourself, you make better choices in the present.

For example, if your goal is to get healthier, instead of focusing solely on gym visits, see yourself as someone who enjoys nourishing meals and exercise. This shift in identity makes decisions more automatic because they align with your self-concept.

The science backs it up. Research shows that when we see our future selves as connected to our present selves, we make decisions that lead to greater happiness and success over time. So, start living as the person you want to become, and watch how your behavior follows naturally.

The Most Meaningful Gift You Can Give Yourself

Language opens doors: to other cultures, to new conversations, to parts of yourself you haven’t met yet.

Babbel’s birthday sale invites you to begin that journey with lifetime access for just $239. Learn at your own pace, with lessons designed by real experts and rooted in real-world connections.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start something new, this is it.

Thank you to Babbel for sponsoring Note To Self. 

The Power of Letting Go

We all carry things that no longer serve us, be it physical clutter, toxic relationships, or unhealthy habits. The hardest part? Letting go. But to grow, we must. Start by identifying what’s holding you back. Whether it's stress, a lack of joy, or feeling stuck, pinpointing the source of frustration is step one.

It’s not just about physical space; emotional baggage also weighs us down. To move forward, we must address these limiting beliefs that keep us tethered to the past. Ask yourself: What could be better if I let this go? This shift in mindset is key. View letting go as an opportunity for new growth, not a loss.

When it comes to letting go of physical items, start small. Tackle one area at a time: your closet, desk, or drawer. Similarly, for toxic relationships, set boundaries and gradually distance yourself from negativity. For emotional baggage, replace limiting beliefs with affirmations that empower you.

Remember: letting go is a liberating act, clearing space for something better.

Award-Winning Luggage That Deals in Smooth Journeys

Whether you’re jetting off to Tuscany or Thailand this summer, a reliable cabin case is non-negotiable. That’s where The Carry-on X (43 L) enters the equation.

Crafted by quiet luxury luggage label Carl Friedrik, The Carry-on X holds a prestigious iF Design Award thanks to its uniquely durable aluminium-polycarbonate construction and elegant look.

Key features include:

  • Hardwearing aluminium frame with TSA-approved locks

  • Refined vegetable-tanned leather detailing

  • Effortlessly smooth Hinomoto spinner wheels

  • Any-stop trolley handle that adjusts to your exact height

  • Compression packing system to maximise space

The Carry-on X ($645) is so durable that it arrives backed by a comprehensive lifetime guarantee. No breakdowns on the open road here.

Navigate the airport rush with ease and simplify your packing routine with The Carry-on X by your side.

Thank you to Carl Friedrik for sponsoring Note To Self.

The Pause

Before you go, take a small pause from your day with this tip brought to you by The Note To Self editors.

Summer Recipe: Avocado and corn salad. Cut corn off the cob, mix with avocado, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Add chili flakes if you like heat.

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

  • âś… True or False: False. Identity evolves over time through experiences, choices, and self-discovery.

  • 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

  • đź’­ Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Identity isn’t fixed. It expands, shifts, and deepens with time. You’re allowed to change, to outgrow, and to rediscover parts of yourself.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Were you forwarded this email and loving our content? Subscribe below to keep receiving daily doses of self-care in your inbox!

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!