How many of you are guilty of using the motto "New year new me" but not living up to your words? It seems like year after year I make these extravagant New Years resolutions that I want to accomplish in the new year, yet somehow the list works for about a week or two and then disappears. If this is you, do not fret! 2017 will be YOUR year. Maybe 2016 was not your year, and you are dreading this new year. That is OK! Whatever baggage you are holding onto or you begrudgingly had to bring into the new year at no fault of your own, you CAN make this your year. You CAN be happy.
Instead of making list after list with goals that just seem out of reach, try to think about goals that are realistic and that are perfect for you.
No matter what you are struggling with, whether it is self image, friendships or your faith, you are not alone. Here are some resolutions — or positive affirmations as I like to call them — to help you make 2017 YOUR year.
1. Daily positive affirmations
If you are struggling with body image or thoughts of unworthiness, it is OK; you are not alone. One thing you can do is first thing in the morning when you wake up, look in the mirror and affirm yourself. "I am beautiful," "I am the daughter of the one true King." It may be hard at first, but if you make it a habit you will start to notice that you are talking positively about yourself and your body instead of constantly shaming it.
2. Exercise
You might be thinking, "Who doesn't have this on their list"? I do not mean go out and run five miles because frankly, unless you are conditioned or a cross country runner, I would not expect you to be able to do that. By exercise I mean go for a walk around the block or have a dance party with your friends. Find a fun way to let off some steam.
3. Time management
Whether you are a tired college student or a busy mom of five, time management is always key. Instead of saying "I'll do it tomorrow," make this year the year that you will say "I'm going to do it today." We all know where procrastination leads us and no one wants to get behind whether it is on college assignments or life in itself, it is always better to say NOW instead of later.
So, whether it is in your personal life, social life, spiritual life or fitness life, stop saying "I'll do it tomorrow" and start saying "I'll do it today." No more making extravagant unreachable goals for 2017. Make this YOUR year to become the best version of you possible.