When ringing in the New Year, everyone makes their own resolutions. 2018 seems to be the year of resolutions that bring change emotionally rather than physically (aka not eating sweet foods, working out more, or wearing less makeup). I wanted to share, as a part of my resolution, how I plan to make myself happy in 2018 and how you can do the same.
1. Let go of what you can't control.
As a millennial, it is difficult to figure out a world so centered around technology-based communication. Wouldn't it be easier if everyone just honestly told each other how they felt, rather than having to guess the meaning of text behind a phone or computer screen? Well, unfortunately, you can't control how others communicate, but you can control how you do. Make a point to be honest, because our world needs more of that this year. Communication is what makes the world goes round.
2. Be more selfless and less selfish.
There are always opportunities to talk about yourself, buy things for yourself, and think about yourself first. And that's not always a bad thing. But, in 2018, my goal is to try and think about doing things for others before I immediately wonder how it will benefit me. Making others happy with little acts of kindness will improve your self-happiness as well. I promise.
3. Stop comparing yourself to others.
You are just as important as anyone else in this world. As cheesy as that may be, it's true. The second you stop comparing the length of your hair, or size of your nose, or amount of money you have to others, you will find happiness within yourself for being exactly who you are. Don't waste your time trying to compare yourself to someone else who you'll never be. Learn to love yourself instead.
4. It's okay to not be okay.
"Me" days are okay. Maybe not even a full day. Maybe it's just a few hours in the morning or before you go to bed. Do your routine and get a good night sleep or sleep in and give yourself time to relax in the morning. Take a shower, do a face mask, take a bubble bath, read a book, listen to your favorite music, light your favorite scented candle, cuddle up with some Netflix, and just do something that'll make you feel centered again.It's not selfish. It's absolutely needed. We are human, we aren't invincible.
5. Don't be so hard on yourself.
Hannah sang it best: nobody's perfect. Putting pressure on yourself to do your best is one thing, but over-obsessing and putting yourself down every time you make a mistake is not okay. You will find that however you speak to yourself will reflect on your happiness and attitude. Tell yourself you'll do better next time, change the way you complete the task the second time, and get up and try try again. Failing doesn't make you any less of a person. It just gives you the motivation to work harder or make the changes that you need to succeed.
Repeat after Derek,
6. Be unapologetically yourself.
We've heard this saying plenty of times. But saying you'll be yourself and actually being yourself are two totally different things. You can talk about being confident and doing you but actions speak louder than words. Don't say "sorry" when someone glares at you for being a little different, embrace it. Don't take any judgment from others seriously enough where it changes how you are as a person, just live like the only person you have to impress is yourself and the rest will follow. Happiness comes from within.
Although the 6 tasks listed above aren't easy and can't happen overnight, working at them every day will improve your self-happiness and attitude towards life. 2018 is the year of self-awareness, selflessness, and love. Be love, give love, and live without fear and happiness will follow.
I want to know if these work for you so make sure to check back every week and follow me on Twitter and Instagram to let me know if you're ready to follow these six steps to improve your quality of life and gain happiness.
Twitter: @alaina_mcginley/Instagram: @alainamcginley
