We all know how January 1st works, am I right? People make a list of goals that they want to achieve or resolutions that they want to work on during the new year. Many times these can including "getting in shape" or "living life to the fullest" but the thing is: why do something ordinary? If 2017 is supposed to be so much better than 2016, why not add something unique to the list to make it interesting? It doesn't have to be anything big. In fact, it can be something quite small. So if you have a resolutions list or want something to add to your resolutions list, here are some suggestions that might add an interesting twist to your non/existent list:
1. Stand up for what you believe in
2016 had many controversial moments where it seemed as if the country was divided for various reasons. But these were also some of the most beautiful moments because people were able to stand up for what they believe in, regradless of what it was. Maybe in 2016 you were afraid to stand up, speak up and fight for what you think is right but maybe in 2017, this can be your year to fight for what you believe in. Regardless of what your friends, family or peers think. Do what you think is right and take a stand.
2. Give back
Maybe you think you're fortunate in life and maybe you don't but regardless, there is always a time and place to give back. Whether this means going to a local homeless shelter and helping serve dinners or helping out your favorite teacher after school to show that you appreciate all of their hardwork. Giving back can be one of the most rewarding feelings and can help many individuals along the way.
3. Discover new music
People keep saying that the only good thing about 2016 was the music but let's make 2017 even better. Search Itunes for some sick new jams for you to dance to while you're alone in your car. New music will automatically make your year better.
4. Show more appreciation
Tell the people that you love that you love them more often. Show the people you care about that you appreciate them. It doesn't take much but I promise you, in the end, your kind words and gestures will mean so much to those people.
5. Change your look
Dye your hair, cut your hair, try out new makeup, buy new clothes: do something that makes you feel good. Maybe feeling good will lead you to feeling good and that's ultimately what 2017 is all about.
6. Random acts of kindness
Remember when this was a thing? Why did it ever stop? This is something that definitely should come back in the upcoming year. Why not start with you?
7. Find something that you used to love doing and try it again
Sometimes in todays world, we forget about the things we once loved. Our talents and hobbies can get lost among things like homework and adult responsibilites. So take a moment for yourself and think about something that you used to love and DO IT. Maybe it won't have the same impact on you as it used to but maybe you'll rediscover a passion for something you didn't even realize you had lost.
8. Get off social media
Take a break and live your life for you, not for the insta.
9. Make amends
Life is way too short to hold grudges, which is why 2017 might be the year that you decide to forgive and move on. I'm not saying that you have to forget but try and forgive as much as you can because one day, these people or you may not be here and we shouldn't have to live life with regrets.
10. Stop creeping on your ex
I don't do this because I don't have an ex but put the phone down and focus on yourself. Let me tell you: YOU DESERVE IT.
11. Focus on you
It's not selfish to focus on yourself in 2017 whether that be physically, mentally or emotionally. You deserve to be happy and healthy and to reach your fullest potential. Don't ever feel bad about choosing that because you deserve it.
Maybe one or two of these were already on your list or maybe all of them or none of them but I hope you can take away a little something something from this list at the end of the day. Just remember: love is out there. Search on. And don't ever give up. Make this year YOURS.
