My goal for the next year is to live life as fully and as honestly as possible. I feel like every time a new year comes around people always say "this is going to be my year," but we don't always do anything to actually make it our year. This year is going to be different. This year will be the best year. In order to make that happen there are a few things that I am going to have to remind myself of over the next twelve months. Here are eighteen reminders to make 2018 the best year possible:

1. Take pictures

Although it is always important to be in the moment, make sure you take at least a few pictures. You will love being able to look back at all of them over the coming years.

2. If you don't know what you want to do, that is okay

As a freshman in college, it's easy to feel like you need to have your whole life figured out right now. You don't have to know. You will change your major a few times. You will be okay. Don't stress about it.

3. Laugh at yourself

Don't be so serious all the time. Life is more fun if you learn to make fun of yourself every once in a while.

4. Don't complain

This can be a hard one sometimes. It doesn't really do anything productive.

5. Do it because you want to

You don't always have to have a logical reason for doing something. Do it because it brings you peace. Do it because it makes you happy. Do it because you want to.

6. Don't rush it

You are exactly where you are supposed to be in life right now. Stop wishing your life away.

7. Appreciate those who don't give up on you

Don't ever take these people for granted. They could have easily just called it quits, but they decided to stay. Don't let them go. Make sure they know that you appreciate them.

8. Don't lower your standards

There is no reason for you to lower your standards. Be patient. You will find someone that meets them

9. Don't wish other people pain

If someone wronged you don't wish that same pain on them. Be the bigger person.

10. Communication is key

Communication is important in all kinds of relationships. It helps to just get it off your chest.

11. Take a deep breath

You will get through it. Just take it day by day or even minute by minute if you need to.

12. Don't regret anything

Even if it wasn't the best experience it was a lesson

13. Experiences are the best presents

Personally, I don't need anything else to clutter my room. Going to a concert or a basketball game or a weekend trip is so much more rewarding than a new video game or new clothes.

14. Failure isn't a bad thing

You learn lessons from failure. Don't let it destroy. Learn from it and try again. You will only get stronger.

15. Be vulnerable

Let people get to know you. You never know what kinds of relationships you're missing out on if you don't try and get to know other people.

16. Stand up straight

You can tell more about someone based on their posture than you think. Stand up straight and be confident.

17. You're the master of your own destiny

If you want an A in this class or you want that internship or this much as a raise then go for it. There is nothing stopping you from trying. Do everything you can to get it and don't let anyone stop you.

18. Give it everything you've got

Don't leave knowing that you could have done even a little bit more.