January has been a rough month for me. Its been bad things followed by worse things and every time I finally get back up on my feet, I get knocked down again. In spite of all that January has given me, I've decided to start 2017 again in February. Throughout the month I want try all these things. Some might stick, some might be a one time thing, but I want to try expand outside my routine and make some changes for myself.

1. Read a book

I can't remember the last time I read a book not for a class and just for pure enjoyment. I miss escaping into the pages of another world and not into a phone or TV. Doesn't have to be a long one, just something I can read between classes or crawl into bed with.

2. Try meditation

I've never been one to sit still with my own thoughts and just breathe. The older I get, the busier I get and I forget to slow down. I feel like my mind is constantly running at 100 mph all day everyday and I need something to slow me down. For 10 minutes I want to go 5 mph and think about nothing but all the good things in my life.

3. Go to bed earlier

I'm guilty on more than one count of putting off homework/studying until later and being up all night to get everything done. I've also crawled into bed with the intention of watching one quick episode of which ever show I'm currently watching and end up watching three. I know my mornings would be easier to get up for and my days wouldn't drag on if I had the energy and rest for them.

4. Go to mass

I've always believed that my faith isn't defined by going to church every Sunday, it's in prayer every night or in the kind things we do for one another that show God's grace. However, its time to start really reconnecting with my religion and finding my spiritual well being.

5. Eat less sugar

On top of my spiritual well being, my physical well being could use some finding as well. I have a HUGE sweet tooth and it's been holding me back. Sugar is metabolized quickly in our bodies so the immediate energy is satisfied, but it will leave you weighed down and hungry with in minutes. Its okay to have a treat once in a while, but it's time to cut back.

6. Write more letters

There's nothing better than getting mail that isn't spam and aren't bills. I have friends all over the country and family across the continent and I think it's about time they get a good old fashioned letter. Just an update of what's going on with me and maybe get a letter back of an update from them.

7. Watch less TV

I'm an addict. After a long day, I love nothing more than to sit on my bed and watch mindless television. I can take a couple hours to not think about work or school or the 15 million things I have to do. However, its time to read a book, write letter or just go out with friends. There's nothing wrong with a lazy day or two, but there's too much out there to do to just sit in front of the TV all the time.

8. Don't be afraid to spend money on myself

I'm the type of person that has no problem buying a $50 sweatshirt for someone else, but will second guess doing it for myself. Doesn't that sound dumb?! I work three jobs and close to 40 hour weeks, I should be spending that hard earned money on myself. I deserve nice things!

9. Attend more group exercise classes

I try to work out about three times a week, just the basic run on the treadmill or some lifting. But our school's gym offers sooo many group exercise classes such as yoga, Zumba, cycling and many many more that I think its time to take advantage of them. I've always been too shy or scared that I'll make a fool of myself, but no more. I might look ridiculous, but at least I tried it and maybe I'll make some new friends.