I think I speak for many when I say that the older you get, the faster the years go by. I even noticed the months passing by a tad quicker this single semester compared to both semesters my freshman year! The best way to describe it would probably be mind-blowing.

Now I’ve always said time flies, but this year I mean it. I certainly believe this was the first time in my life I accurately recognized the truth in that worn out saying. The past four months, 2015 as a whole has come and gone in the blink of an eye. And while day by day everything seems the same, all of a sudden when we take a step back and overlook the year, so much has changed.

I wish I had taken a moment earlier to take note of the clock, to make sure every minute of my life was being carried out in the most fulfilling way possible.

That is why I hope for myself, in 2016, to become an individual more aware of the precious time I am given.

To keep myself from becoming overly caught up in the hustle and bustle of school, work, deadlines and my future. To enjoy the now.

To remind myself that keeping in touch with my loved ones is not merely ideal or a duty but vital. Despite my schedule, sending a quick text, writing an e-mail/letter (for the older generations) or making a call should never be put on the back burner. Days may be passing, we may be busy, but that is no excuse for lacking the effort and time that goes into maintaining relationships.

To remind myself that as the year goes on, as my life changes, I will change as well. To not beat myself up over every mistake I make or the uncertainties I have.

I hope for myself, in 2016, to understand, accept and even treasure the fact that I am a work in progress. I will always strive to learn, to be better.

To become so engulfed in, so happy about the blessings and accomplishments in my own life, that I forget about anyone or anything trying to drag me down.

To let my happiness come first, to love myself well, because loving myself means I am genuinely happy. It is only when I am content with who I am, in those times when my heart is filled with pure happiness, allowing myself to cherish even the most minuscule happenings of my everyday life.

I hope for myself, in 2016, for the rest of my years to come, to abidingly remember the essence of time. To make sure I am making each moment of my life fulfilling in every way possible, so when the time comes and another year ends, I can reflect on an abundance of joyful, rewarding and unforgettable moments.

To be grateful for each and every moment I am given, because I know in one year I will find myself talking to a friend, saying the same old cliché: time undoubtedly, truly, absolutely and utterly flies.