Is it better to pay off collections?

Hi! Serious questions as I’m trying to get my credit up. I have about 3 things in collections. Two are from a few years ago. I was young and dumb and got two credit cards for my parents. The other was my own fault. I’m getting older and would love to start fixing my credit. So my question, is it better to pay off collections? Or letting it fall off after 7 years? I’m not sure if I can wait the 7 years, but would like to do what’s best for me. Please help.