To say the least, the end of 2018 left me in a but of a rut - I had been working the same disgusting job or almost two years, my social life equated to that of a toddler and my education seemed to be on hold. Not to mention the countless activities and opportunities I was putting off due to fear.
As a person very set in her ways, "new year, new me" seemed like a very daunting concept, but with how I was beginning to feel, it began to look more and more rewarding.
As 2019 crept closer, I became more irritated with the current state of my life and decided that, come January, I was going to become a whole new person.
This list is a compilation of suggestions based on the changes that I instituted in my own life that have made all the difference for me that will hopefully help you find the same motivation to turn your life around.
1. Change something about your appearance
Whether you choose to make this change big or small, any change to ones physical appearance can be energizing. For me it was as simple as a haircut - I chose a style that I wouldn't normally - but it can be something as big as a new tattoo. Revamping your appearance can allow a new sense of self image to bring confidence into your mundane routine, and even boost your self esteem in the long run.
2. Switch up your wardrobe
As a more specific part of changing your overall appearance, making a bold, out-of-your-comfort-zone wardrobe choice can be rewarding.
3. Spend some money
For those of us that usually don't make impulse purchases for ourselves, setting aside a little cash for some splurging can be good. Take that $20 you were going to put into your savings this month and put it towards a new outfit, or that book you've been dying to read, or a new phone case to replace your cracked one.By committing time and money to yourself, you are boosting your self esteem not only when you go shopping, but also every time you use whatever you bought.
4. Take some sort of risk
For me, this meant quitting my job and beginning the hunt for a new one. Not only was this beneficial, it was also a great way to switch up my routine and step outside of my comfort zone. However, you don't have to become unemployed to consider it a risk. It can be anything that makes you uncomfortable that you know should change for the better.
5. Re-evaluate important relationships in your life
Relationships are always complicated, no matter what type of relationship it is. Dedicate some energy towards identifying which relationships are most important to you and if they are healthy and well taken care of. On the flip side, identify relationships that aren't so healthy or maybe have run their course, and think about distancing yourself or ending the relationship all together. By keeping your relationships positive, current and beneficial you guarantee a great support system if anything goes awry.
6. Clean!
This applies to everything: your home, your car, your social media, your personal life as a whole. Cleaning anything and everything and getting rid of anything that doesn't serve a purpose or is just clutter can totally revamp your spaces.
7. Chase a dream
What a better excuse than the new year to jump on some opportunities? Take a chance at everything that you've been postponing - put yourself and your grand plans at the forefront of your activities for a while and see what you can accomplish.
8. Do something purely for the fun of it
As our lives get increasingly busy, we often push fun and leisure aside. Countless studies have shown that this is not good for both our mental health and it can harm other areas of out life. With that in mind, take a day or two every now and then and dedicate it specifically to something you enjoy.
"New year, new me" isn't just about doing what you want, its also about doing what you need, and changes can be hard and will take time. But, it's all about you! So reflect on yourself and make the appropriate changes and come out a better, more vibrant person.
man running in forestPhoto by 
