Dear 2017 Self,

As does every year, 2016 has had its ups and downs. Of course, how can all 365 days in a year be absolutely perfect? There were things that couldn't be reversed: deaths of loved ones, natural disasters and simple things like not doing well on tests. Of course, there are ways to move on and build upon these occurrences. My main focus for you, though, 2017 self, is on the things -- and habits -- that CAN be reversed: falling-outs, unnecessary spending of money, organizational struggles, lack of patience, unhealthy routines, jealousy and focusing on yourself more than on others. I don't expect myself to be a human without mistakes. After all, if we don't make mistakes, how would we learn to become better people? I want to strive to be the best that I can be and make sure that my purpose on Earth shines at a young age.

As the new year begins, I wish fir you to focus on happiness through relationships and non-materialistic ways. Money buys only temporary happiness, but healthy relationships, habits and adventure will grant eternal happiness. Just looking back on memories, picturing singing songs with friends or taking a stroll at sunset with your boyfriend brings back more authentic joy than picturing buying a new, cute sweater. Of course, it is OK to treat yourself every once in a while to a new shirt or a yummy dinner, but remember it's the memories you make WHILE wearing that new shirt or the conversation you have WHILE eating that yummy dinner that counts the most.

It's your time in life to have fun and to enjoy friends' company, but it is more than that: it is your time to set yourself up for the future. I made very good grades this semester, and I strive to continue to do so. What people don't normally say school does for you, though, is build character. Something as simple as volunteering to feed the homeless or tutoring a friend can motivate anyone to continue to spread kindness to others in many different ways. It is true that this built kindness toward others can become a tool for self-success. You need to organize and balance life to promote success and happiness for others and yourself. You need to make a typical Monday look like this: go to class, do homework, rehearse/practice, grab food with a friend that hasn't been seen in a while and sleep. Then, make a typical Saturday look like this: sleep in a bit, do homework, clean, volunteer somewhere, go out with friends.

Make 2017 a year of positive change, and when the negative hits, find a way to learn from it and continue to strive for greatness.

Sincerely,

2016 Self