10 New Year's Resolutions That Are More Important Than Losing Weight

As the New Year rings in we all want one thing: to lose weight. Contrastingly, a more important resolution is to improve yourself. Your weight does not determine your self-worth. Your self-worth is an investment of so many other things other than skipping Grandma's famous chocolate cake.

1. Vow to read more

If you're anything like me, you despise reading books. I hate being still for a long period of time, and I have to get up and do things. However, it has been proven that regularly reading enhances brain function. You can become more knowledgeable, and more well rounded because you are exposed to many different types of people, things, and ideas. Reading can also relieve stress. After a long day, you can escape into another reality.

2. Go for walks

Not only is walking excellent exercise, but it relieves stress and opens you up to fresh air. If you are extremely stressed, going for a walk will help you feel more open-minded, focused, and stress-free.

3. Opt for a healthy diet

This is the hardest thing anyone can do, but maybe asking for a side salad instead of fries could really benefit your health goals. That is, if you have any.

4. Study more

Does this feel familiar? Every evening read through your notes that you have taken that day, this will help you retain the information that you wrote down. Every couple days completely read through all the notes you have. This will better prepare you for exams so you do not have to cram.

5. Create a morning routine

Waking up super early sucks at first. But if you get in the habit of a morning routine, you can actually become a morning person. For example, instead of snoozing 27 times, wake up as soon as your alarm goes off. Do your normal routine, but maybe add in 10-30 minutes of some time to yourself. Use that time to go for a walk, or do yoga, or read!

6. Make time for yourself

Many people think that prioritizing yourself is selfish. It is actually the exact opposite. When you make time for yourself to do things you enjoy, you will be overall happier and more confident.

7. Find a new hobby

Finding a new hobby for yourself can be very hard to work into your schedule. Maybe your new hobby can be collecting novelty mugs or socks. Anything that brings you joy can be your new hobby.

8. Journal

Journaling is a very effective way of keeping track of how you feel, and letting your mind wander and expand. The best part of journaling is that it is all up to you! No one has to read or understand what you write.

9. Be kind

Being kind to someone is always the best thing you could do. Smile at everyone you see, and always be willing to help someone in need. Good karma will come your way.

10. SMILE MORE!

When your eyes open to a new day, smile. When you get done brushing your teeth and you look in the mirror, smile. When you see someone who looks uneasy, smile. When you bump into someone on accident, smile. Even if you force a smile, you will always feel better and happier.

No matter what your New Year's Resolution is, you are sure to succeed if you set your mind to it, and are proactive for a change. HAPPY NEW YEAR!