Like I mentioned in previous articles and what I will continue to mention in articles to come, everyone is going through their own battle. So why not be nice?

Life is hard, man. We are all living busy lives and juggling maybe five or even more things all at once. Showing acts of kindness and respect along the way can really make someone's day, month, and even year.

Being nice to a stranger, a friend, a family member, or anything living, and breathing can go a long way.

It is the little things.

Hold the door for someone, say thank you, and give someone a hug. Who knows what reaction you can get by doing something little but appreciated to someone.

I don't know about you, but there is nothing I love more than the little things. For example, getting a phone call from a long distance BFF, people hyping me up and telling me how awesome I am (even though I often disagree), and people showing they love me for me.

If you have nothing nice to say, do not say it. Take a step back and put yourself in the person's shoes. Would you like it if they did XYZ to you? The chances are your answer is no.

Being nice takes little to no effort.

Not only does it make you a better person, but it makes you more approachable and people will want you in their presence.

But, and here comes the but, many people tell me well I don't want to be considered nice because people will walk all over me.

Hun, I get it, that is my problem, I am too nice. But what can anyone say about being too nice? "Oh, do you know Julie, she is too nice." There is no negative connotation with being "too nice."

The only response I can think of is, "Wow, I want to be friends with Julie because she looks really nice and awesome (aww, thanks — *hair flip*).

Because let's be honest, if you are "too nice" you probably have little to no enemies and many people like and respect you.

So, if you want to join me and make a goal for this upcoming school year besides treating yo' self and doing you, be nice!

Wouldn't you rather be known as the nice girl anyways? I know I would!