The New Year is approaching quick which means a sudden influx of “new year, new me” posts on Facebook as well as sentimental memories from the past year. Looking back on my 2016, I have definitely learned a lot. Knowing what I do now, here are some of my resolutions to better myself in 2017.

1. Always Follow Your Heart

One of the biggest lessons I have learned in 2016 is that your happiness in life depends on you only. It is so important to try to take the opions of others with a grain of salt, no matter how well intentioned they may be, and follow your heart. In the end, you only have yourself. A life spent not doing what makes you happy is a life wasted.

2. Read More

While not only being a way to improve your vocabulary and increase your awareness of the world, reading can also be a great way to relax. During 2017 I am going to make it my goal to find more time for reading, whether it be books, the newspaper, or even online articles about what is happening around the world.

3. Write More

Along the same lines as reading, writing can also be very therapeutic. I have really found my appreciation for writing in 2016 and hope to continue to write as much as possible in the new year. Keeping a journal has become a sense of relief for me and something I look forward to when my life seems hectic and confusing. Writing makes sense of my problems and helps me sort through my thoughts far more efficiently.

4. Make More Time For Family

It is no surprise that family are the most important people in your life. They are the only ones who have truly been there from the beginning with unconditional love and support. Though I may be very busy with schoolwork and clubs, I want to make plenty of time to call my family this year and let them know how much they mean to me more often.

5. Learn To Say No

Another important life lesson I learned this past year and hope to carry on into 2017 is that it is okay to say no and not explain yourself. Pleasing everyone is sometimes impossible and it is crucial to understand that. Do not stress yourself out making tons of different commitments just so you do not disappoint others who probably wouldn’t think twice about saying no to you. Put yourself first and say no to the things that do not benefit you or make you happy.

Happy New Year!