2016 has been a year of chaos. As a society, I feel 2016 took a toll on us. Personally, 2016 was a roller coaster, and I know many of you would agree. Everyone seems so ready for a new year. So, to start 2017 off right, here are 5 ways to start the year with a clean slate!

1. Get Rid of Toxic People

If your year was filled with people just trying to start drama or people trying to bring you down, it’s time to get rid of those people. As hard as it may be, it’s time to let the people go that don’t want to bring out the best in you. Or perhaps you have already ended things with a certain negative person, but still have things that remind you of them. It’s time to let go of the negativity of the past and welcome the positivity of the new!

2. Replace your Self-blame "I'm sorry"s with Thanks Instead

We are so quick to blame ourselves right away, and eventually it brings us down. It also makes others tired of hearing our apologies. So, this year, instead of apologizing for minor things like running late or forgetting something, try saying “Thanks for waiting” or “Thanks for being so forgiving”. You’ll find that not only will it help boost your own attitude, but it will be nice for the receiving end to hear thanks every now and then. This is a great spin on something normally negative, and you will find it makes a difference in your overall attitude.

3. Take Up a New Hobby that Allows Self-reflection

It’s always a good thing to take some time to reflect on your thoughts, and taking up a new hobby that allows you to have peace and quiet is perfect for that! Try taking a calming drive, or finding somewhere quiet to sit and get lost in your thoughts. If you’re more into writing down your thoughts, buying a nice journal and gathering up your thoughts in there is a great way to release some stress and have more control over your thoughts. You never know, but by really digging into yourself you might find a new trait about yourself you never knew or a new hobby you love.

4. Create a Self-care Plan

It’s very important to take care of yourself! For 2017, start up a self-care plan! Create a routine, whether it be related to your physical, mental, or spiritual health, and stick to it. You’ll find that when you take care of yourself, other aspects of your life will fall into place. Stick to your routine, but don't beat yourself up if you don't follow it religiously everyday. Just be sure to set aside time for yourself once in a while. Taking care of yourself will allow you to have a better outlook on things and think clearer.

5. Be Open to New Opportunities and New People

Let 2017 be the year that you are open to new things! Whether it be a new job, a new partner, or a new friend, allow these new things into your life. A new year is a great chance to let new opportunities into your life. Try to let loose and shed away any anxiety about new experiences, and enjoy the new things life has to throw at you. If you've always been the kid to stay quiet and stay on the sidelines, try to put yourself out there! If you get offered something you've always wanted to try and never had the nerve, talk yourself into accepting the offer! Obviously keep your respectful boundaries, but don't decline a chance at new experiences and new friends!