With the new year right around the corner, I’ve been thinking a lot about my New Year’s resolutions. And, while most of the time I tend to make ones that I may or may not end up following, this year, I am determined to keep a few things in mind as I come to a fresh start.

1. Don’t shy away from being yourself.

We’ve all struggled with the idea of fitting into society’s expectations, and what we think others want us to be. I want my 2016 self to remember that it’s OK to be myself, and that I shouldn’t be trying to be anyone but that. The people in my life love me for who I am, and if they don’t, that’s their loss. There’s no point in wasting time pretending to be someone you’re not when being yourself is the best version of yourself you can be.

2. Stop settling.

I have a big tendency to settle for a lot of things. I settle for grades in school. I settle for not having perfect relationships with my family. I settle for guys who don’t treat me right and friends who don’t put in the effort. 2016 self, please remember not to settle. You are worth it, and capable of so much more than you realize. Make sure you do your best in your classes. I know it can be stressful, and it's really easy to procrastinate, but you’ll thank yourself later when you get your dream job. But, at the same time, make sure to have fun. These are your years to be stupid and reckless and enjoy yourself, so make sure you do. Don’t settle for the guy who only wants one thing. But again, don’t feel pressured to keep from enjoying yourself. This life is short, and you should live it the way you want, but remember to only keep people in life who respect and treat you right. Any friend who doesn’t take the time to keep you in their life is not someone you should be keeping in yours.

3. Remember you're worth it.

I’m serious. Stop doubting yourself. Stop looking in the mirror and picking away at your body, or looking at someone else and wishing you were them. You are you. And, you are beautiful just the way you are. Remember that you are worth it both inside and outside. Get rid of the toxic people in your life who think you’re worth anything less than what you deserve.

4. Smile more than frown.

It’s so hard to have a positive outlook always, but I’m hoping 2016 will help me out with this one a little. Every year, it’s a never-ending wish for a “better” year. But, why can’t we make it a better year ourselves? Bad things are bound to happen at some point, but life goes on. 2016 me, please try to have a positive outlook on whatever life throws your way. Yes, there’s a time to be sad, but you deserve to be happy, and shouldn’t let the little things you can’t change get to you so much.

5. Take care of yourself.

I’m not saying to be selfish, but to put yourself first for once. You owe it to yourself to follow all of those silly resolutions everyone makes but never follows: eat healthy, work out, dress nice, take a day for yourself. Do things for you. Focus on your hobbies and the things you want in life. Focus on being a better you. After all, it’s all in your hands.

Here’s to a fresh start, 2016 self. Let’s make it a good one.