It may sound dramatic, but I’m not suggesting a new diet or new exercise plan. Simple things can work, too. New Year’s resolutions usually consist of removing things from your life. Instead of taking things out, just consider some better choices.
Here’s a list of things some minor things you should consider doing every day in order to have a happier year:
1. Smile more
Even if you’re having a terrible day, make sure you find a reason to smile. Think of some of your favorite things.
2. Have a more positive attitude
Even when it seems like nothing is going your way, try to imagine a more positive outlook. It won't always be easy, but it'll be worth it.
3. Practice patience
Take a deep breath. Sitting in traffic is terrible, but it’s not the end of the world. Yes, it might make you late, but letting yourself become upset only ruins your day and makes you miserable. Going through the security lines at the airport may be excruciatingly annoying, but the thoroughness of the security makes traveling safer for everyone. Try to remind yourself that everything will work out in the end.
4. Be more kind
Tell someone you like their hair or their outfit. Give at least one compliment a day. You might just make someone’s day. Making people smile is one of the easiest ways to be happy.
5. Laugh more
Laughing is one of the easiest ways to burn calories, so there really are no reasons not to laugh.
6. Take time for yourself
At the end of a busy day or a hectic work week, take some time to unwind. Take a relaxing bath or read a book. Always make time for yourself. It’s okay to be selfish sometimes. Which leads me to another change…
7. Do more of what makes you happy
Watch a movie. Turn on some music and sing your heart out while dancing along. Take a walk. Hang out with friends.
8. Eat healthier
Swap that bowl of ice cream for an apple every once in a while. Choose a salad over a burger for lunch. Drink a water over sweet tea. Don't let that stop you from not Tell yourself it’s fine to eat junk sometimes. It’s totally okay if you don’t always choose the healthier option.
9. Save money
Every week, place $20 (or whatever amount) aside in a jar. You’ll be amazed at how much money you can end up with, especially if you add money more than once a week. Use that money to spoil yourself, which leads me to my next change…
10. Spoil yourself more often
That purse you’ve been eyeing every time you walk past the Michael Kors store? Buy it. Those new Nike gym shoes you love? Buy them. You deserve it. Even something as small as buying yourself a new perfume or a movie is enough. You work hard, and it’ll make the hard work seem worth it.
11. Spend more time with family and friends
Take your dad out to dinner. Bring your mom shopping. Call your grandparents more. Go to a movie with your siblings. Your family has been there from the start, so, chances are, they want to spend time with you. Being with your family can always make you feel better.
12. Take more chances
Go on that skydiving adventure you’ve always been putting off. Get that tattoo you’ve been debating on getting.
13. Be more spontaneous
Even if you just say yes to a night out with a friend when all you really want to do is curl up with a good book, it’ll change up your routine. A change of pace is always exciting than falling into the same patterns.
14. Take better care of the environment
Try to reuse and recycle more. Educate yourself on climate change and research how you and your family could cut back on using resources. It doesn’t hurt to help the environment.
15. Make healthier decisions
Instead of taking the elevator, make the choice to take the stairs. It might take longer and depending on how many flights you climb, your body may be in some pain, but your body will be thanking you in the long run. Also, if something about yourself feels off or doesn’t feel right, get it checked out. Even if it’s a false alarm, it’ll be better being certain than leaving your mind wondering. Take care of yourself and your body
16. Spend more time outside
Bring a book (or your homework) outside on a nice sunny day. Take more walks. Ride your bike through a nature trail. Watch more sunsets. Get up to see the sunrise. Earth is filled with beautiful things, soak them all in.
Make sure to enjoy life. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle, so make sure to take some time to relax. You only get one chance at life, so try to make it as awesome as possible!
