As we come to the traditional celebration of the passing of one year and the birth of a new one. It is common to beg the year to bring us good among making promises to begin working on ourselves starting the first day of the new year. I have never really understood the concept of people making life-altering promises to themselves each year, even though they spent the previous year procrastinating those very same promises. I’ve decided, instead, to share a list of thoughts of wisdom I have complied and will continue to remind myself of throughout this new year. A list of mantras that will last longer than the month of January. I wish everyone a year full of health and ultimate happiness.

1. Tomorrow is not guaranteed so do not take today for granted.

Our time is limited so it is so important to live for every moment without hesitation or regret. Do not put off what can be done today.

2. Do not let fear overcome opportunity.

Take advantage of what you have been given.

3. Put yourself out into the universe because, ultimately, you are the only one who has control over where you go in life.

It starts with your own self-motivation, you are invincible if you believe you are.

4. Trust others.

There is good and bad in all, but the possibility of knowing is unattainable unless you allow yourself to find out.

5. Do not allow the world to turn you hard.

Do not confuse softness with weakness, they are not synonymous. To be gentle is to have courage and strength.

6. Try something a younger you would not have thought of trying.

You will develop an open mind and learn more about yourself.

7. Look at things from a new perspective.

For example, if you are someone who enjoys planning and organization, have a go at being more spontaneous and vice versa.

8. Find interest in subjects you once overlooked.

You may learn something new that will change what you thought you knew.

9. Observe your surroundings and take them in.

It is in the moments we pay attention to detail that we become more aware.

10. Take time to be thankful for how far you’ve come.

Even if you do not think you’ve accomplished a lot, you have. Take credit where credit is due.

11. Do not wait to proclaim a promise based on the idea of bettering yourself at the end of the year and call it a “New Year’s Resolution.”

There is no time like now, every day is a chance to start over. The present is a gift for a reason and the future is yours to unfold.

11. Question things to expand your knowledge.

This goes beyond raising your hand in class when you can’t understand why someone put Greek letters in math equations.

12. Become focused.

Even if it’s just on a simple task like writing out a to-do list or finishing that paper you waited until last minute. Concentrating will make you feel more accomplished.

13. It is a new time to create new mistakes.

Welcome them, learn from them, and carry on.

14. Have faith in yourself and your ideas.

Plant your feet firmly in the group and remain unwavering to those who may try to convince you otherwise.

15. Calendars and years are of human construction.

A period of time should not be to blame for misfortunes that are a natural part of life.

16. Understand that this year, too, will come and go.

Say hello to a new wave of change, love, hurt, and everything in between until its closure.