1. Set goals for yourself
Whether it's working out more, making the Dean's list, or saving up for Spring Break, find something to work towards. You'll feel more accomplished when you reach it.
2. Listen to your body
Your body communicates with you more often than you realize and if you've been feeling sluggish or unhappy lately, it might just be your body telling you to make some lifestyle changes! Taking steps to eat better, get outside more often, or do more of what you love can be just what you need to feel great all year long.
3. Take mental health days
Just like your body, your mind can feel under the weather too. On those days where the weight of the world is just a little to heavy, it's important to take some time to give your mind a break. Methods such as meditation, guided breathing, and coloring (it's not just for elementary schoolers anymore) can be the perfect way to let your mind get the R&R it needs.
4. Go on adventures
Take road trips with no set destination, go to concerts and plays, explore the world around you; these are just some of the many adventures you can have in the coming year. Take opportunities to break away from the mundane and create stories worth telling years down the road.
5. Take pictures
A picture is the perfect way to frame a memory, like a moment frozen in 4" x 6". Take pictures of your friends, yourself, the view out your window, etc. You'll want to remember these days.
6. Work hard
Nothing worth having comes easy, so get out there and work for what you want so you never have to say you didn't try hard enough. The rewards will be more than worth it.
7. Learn to say no
Most people believe that in order to live, you must always say yes. However, sometimes it's more important to know how to say no. Say no to things you don't want to do, say no to people who take advantage of you, say no to what hinders you, and, most importantly, say no without feeling the need to explain yourself. "No" is a complete sentence.
8. Cut off toxic relationships
Relationships that drain you, hurt you, and exhaust you aren't worth it. If you're not benefiting from it, it needs to go. You'll feel a weight lifted off of your shoulders when you do.
9. Prioritize
Make it clear to yourself what your priorities are and stick to them. If the most important thing in your life is getting good grades, study hard. If you would rather work on your social life, join clubs and attend campus events. Don't lose sight of what's important to you!
10. Make time for those who matter
There are relationships that only drown you, but fortunately there are relationships that help you swim. Make sure to spend time growing those because having a good group of partners in crime is the best way to conquer the year.
11. Try something new
New year, new you. It's the perfect time to try something new that you've always wanted to do. You never know, you just might find a new hobby!
12. Do what you love
New or old, always remember to take time to do what you love. Whether it's reading, hiking, or playing a sport, doing what you love will keep you feeling happier all year long.
13. Do something greater than yourself
In 2016, step out of your bubble and realize that there is so much more to the world around you. No matter what cause is near to your heart, be sure to spend time making our world a better place.
14. Forgive
Grudges weigh us down and with that weight we can never grow. Leave the pain of the past where it belongs, forgive those who have wronged you and move forward with a clean slate.
15. Be kind
We need more kindness in this world. It's cliche, but just one small act of kindness can set off a chain reaction. Be that action.
16. Worry less
Everything has a way of working itself out, so spend less time worrying about what is to come. Look toward the future with hopeful eyes and enjoy every moment that comes with it.
