The New Year is coming, which spurs a countless number of people worldwide to come up with a list of New Year’s resolutions. If you are puzzling over what to add to your list, perhaps some of these simple and sweet resolutions can help you out.

1. Be kind to others

Kindness is the easiest thing to spread to those around you. Spread it with smiles, with compliments, with hugs, etc. I think some people are unaware of the importance of kindness, and of the immensely positive effect it can have. For example, if someone says they like my outfit, I will instantly be beaming and will remember that throughout the day. That may sound silly, but it’s true. Hold that door. Smile at that stranger. Help that person carry their heavy bags. Make a difference and make someone's day. Little niceties go a long, long way.

2. Be kind to yourself

This is a big one. Yes, being kind to others should always be a priority, but so should being kind to yourself. It’s not hard to beat yourself up about inconsequential things, like embarrassing yourself in front of one of your peers, or over more serious things, like doing poorly on a big test. I do it all the time, as I’m sure we all do, but we should be more easy on ourselves and move past our mistakes or awkward moments. Do push yourself, and do try to be the best you can be. Practice tough love to reach your goals, but also remember that you are human. You can afford to mess up on occasion. The world won’t implode if you make a few mistakes and your future won’t dissolve before your eyes. You will be okay, I promise.

3. Forgive

Holding grudges is one of the worst things you can do. It is absolutely pointless. It just lets negativity fester inside of you, darkening the space that should be reserved for positivity and light. Forgive, forgive, forgive. I’m not saying you have to forget or repair broken friendships. All I’m saying is that you should forgive those that have hurt or wronged you, for you, not for them. A cumbersome weight will be lifted from your shoulders when you cleanse yourself of the bitterness you are holding onto. You will be exponentially happier.

4. Be happy

Speaking of happiness, one of your resolutions, not just for the new year, but for life, should be happiness—to be happy. Covet happiness. Crave happiness. Exude happiness. You don’t need to be happy 24/7, but hopefully you will be for the majority of the time. If you aren’t happy now, seek out happiness. Find what makes you grin wider than the glowing face of the moon; once you find it, latch on and never let go. Happiness can be found in everything: music, friends, food, TV, books, fitness, science, writing, sports, dance, family, art, etc. With great happiness comes fulfillment and contentment, so never stop searching for the things that will bring it into your life.