If I had a dollar for every time I've heard "new year new me", I would be one rich woman (and probably able to pay off my student loans). But that doesn't mean there isn't a reason to work on improving yourself in the new year. Just because it's a cliche doesn't mean you shouldn't work on becoming the best version of you! Here at eight ways to improve yourself in 2018 (even if it's just by a little).

1. Eat more whole foods

I like chips and junk food as much as the next person. However, it doesn't make me feel very good overall. Working more fruits and vegetables into your diet will do wonders for both your health and mood. If another one of your resolutions is to lose weight, this helps that as well! Adding one or even two whole-food based meals into your day will help you kickstart your own health journey!

2. Write

This doesn't mean writing the next great American novel. Writing daily in a journal or diary is good to clear one's thoughts and can act as a form of therapy. It can unburden your mind from the stresses of life.

3. Limit use of social media

This is something I have been experimenting with lately, myself, and I've found it extremely beneficial. Going an hour or two without social media notifications or use significantly limited my stress and anxiety, especially with everything going on in the news.

4. Read more

Personally, I like to be able to read the classics. I have books from authors such as Leo Tolstoy and Stephen King ready to read on my shelves. Reading gives me a sense of peace and is my escape from the problems of the world.

5. Cook more

I don't know about you, but I spend way too much money on pizza and take-out. Being able to cook more will broaden my taste palate and certainly be a good escape from all that fast food.

6. Spend more time outside

Like me, many people spend a majority of their time inside their house all day without even so much as opening a window for air. Fresh air will clear out the room and allow fresh, new oxygen into your lungs. Going for even a simple walk outside is good for you and will do wonders for your health.

7. Be more active

That doesn't have to mean going to the gym. It could be something as simple as going for a walk around the neighborhood or doing a sit-up/push-up challenge in your room. Our bodies are meant to be active and moving and exercise even helps combat depression and anxiety.

8. Be more grateful

Be grateful for the life you are living. Be grateful for the fortunate things you have and the people who make your life so special. Stop for a minute during the day and realize how fortunate you are to have this year to make a change in your life.