I have a feeling 2016 has basically sucked for everyone. I know it did for me. From losing all three of my pets, struggling with severe anxiety and depression, and not doing as well in school this semester as I would have liked to, it's safe to say I'm ready to say "adios" to 2016. I have never been big on the whole "New Year, New Me" thing, but something has got to give. I'm ready to make 2017 my year. I'm sure we all know that the most common New Year resolution is to lose weight. This is a great resolution, really it is (I just signed up for a gym membership about 20 minutes ago), but most people don't stick with it for more than a few weeks. I have been pondering quite a bit lately about changes I need to make to start living the life I want, but I know how I work, and I know I won't stick to anything super specific for more than a few days. So, in return, I've created a list of resolutions that are actually maintainable, and free!
1. Become more healthy
I decided to say this because, like I said, most people do not stick with their resolution to just "lose weight". We should focus on being healthy; eat the right foods, exercise regularly, and the weight will come off. But don't forget to indulge once in a while to stay sane.
2. Stand up for yourself
This is something I have always struggled with, but have gotten exceptionally better at within the past couple years. I have learned that if you don't stand up for yourself, you won't get what you want and you will give someone the satisfaction of walking all over you, which isn't cool.
3. Be more positive
If you spread positivity, positive things will come your way. Besides, no one likes negative Nancy's.
4. Expand your knowledge of something
Discover something you have a passion for and learn about it. Don't just look up some quick facts on Google, actually take time and be interested in something.
5. Be yourself
Learn to express what you're passionate about, stop conforming to societies standards, and don't be afraid to make a bold statement.
6. Take time for yourself
In order to keep from going insane, this is very important. If you're a college student, you know what it's like to constantly have three million things to do. You don't ever have nothing to do. But, in the midst of your stressful life, remember to do something nice for yourself often.
7. Read more
I guess this only applies to people who enjoy reading. I love to read but with work, school, and trying to have somewhat of a social life, it's hard to find time to pick up a book. Once I do, though, I can't believe I waited so long to dive into another world.
8. Stop procrastinating (well, at least try to)
If anyone has mastered the art of not procrastinating, please get ahold of me.
9. Work on your self-confidence
Having confidence can make your life so much better. You aren't afraid to get out of your comfort zone and you just feel better all around.
10. Bring more peace into your life
I'll be the first to admit that I worry about everything. But worrying doesn't solve a single thing and I'm slowly learning that. Bring more peace to your life by removing negative people, stop worrying so much, and don't sweat the small stuff.
11. Learn to love yourself
This goes hand in hand with having confidence. Once you learn to love yourself and accept yourself for who you are, life will be so much more beautiful.
12. Start keeping a journal
I've done this multiple times throughout the years, but I only keep it going for a few weeks. In 2017, I plan to try and write in a journal every day. Personally, I find it fun to go back and see what I did on a certain day or how I was feeling.
13. Volunteer
Volunteering not only helps out people in need, but it is such a rewarding feeling to know that you've made a difference in someone's world.
14. Meet new people
You can never know too many people. Remember, it's all about who you know.
15. Get more organized
It's a proven fact that being organized makes you feel better.
16. Spend less time on social media
Although it's addicting, social media makes us zombies. I'm just as addicted to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram as the next millennial but I'm starting to realize how it's affecting me. There's more to life than what's on the screen!
17. Make 2017 the year to be selfish
Be selfish, love yourself, put your health first, be humble, and make 2017 your year!
