Happy New Year! A fresh start is finally here after a long, eventful 2017. It's time to sit down and really think about all the things you can change in your life to make this upcoming year better than the last. Of course, there's the typical "go to the gym" and "read a book" resolutions, but who actually follows those anyways??? The answer: not many.

Rather than sticking to traditional resolutions, try these practical ones that you'll actually want to stick with.

1. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise everyday.

It's easier said than done, but it is possible. Rather than telling yourself to go to the gym, make exercising fun! Go on walks, take the long routes to classes, do some squats while you binge watch Netflix, or take the stairs rather than the elevator. Exercising can be fun if you make it fun.

2. Do what makes you happy.

Stop trying to please people. Stop trying to make other people happy when you're absolutely miserable. A new year means getting a grip on your life and doing things you'll remember and enjoy the most.

3. Say goodbye to toxic relationships.

Normally when people read this they first thinks of boyfriends or girlfriends. Although it can be used in that sense, it can also be used with friend groups. As previously mentioned, if you aren't happy, don't stay with it. Most times staying with a bad relationship only prevents you from meeting new and better people!

4. Take more pictures.

By now, everyone has been saying how fast this year went. Time flies when you're having fun. What's a better way to remember more memories than to take lots of pictures?

5. Keep up with what's going on around the world.

That means reading/watching the news! Nothing is more sexy than knowing world events and keeping up with everyone else.

6. Drink more water.

You don't have to do those ridiculous diets to keep your body healthy. Drinking water is a great way to get rid of toxins and make your skin look more lively. It's also 100% better than sugary energy drinks or sodas.

7. Go to more concerts.

There's nothing better than seeing your favorite musician or band sing your all time favorite song live. Period.

8. Study abroad.

An adult once told me to take advantage of time while you have it. Sure, most of us are college students who don't have any money, but at least we don't have a full time "big kid" job or families to look after.

9. Ask for help.

It's a hard thing to do, but if you don't start learning how to ask now, you never will.

10. Spend more time outside.

We live in a time where Netflix is the rage. Binging 20 episodes can feel like an accomplishment, but doing it every day can be bad for your health. Going outside is proven to help anxiety, depression, and stress.

11. Give back/volunteer.

Whether it's volunteering or donating old clothes to a local Goodwill, giving back is a great way to not only help others, but also yourself. It teaches you to not be so greedy and allows you to grow as a person.

12. Be aware of your mental health.

Mental health days are real things and should be taken if necessary. Despite what many will say, your mental health is extremely important. Take care of yourself.

13. Push yourself to get out of comfort zones.

Try new foods. Meet new friends. Go to events by yourself if you always go with groups of people. Pick up a new hobby. Put yourself out there no matter how uncomfortable or awkward it can be.

14. Stop saying "sorry."

If you want to quit a bad habit, start with this one. Most times people say they're sorry for unnecessary reasons or when they don't mean it at all. Be conscious about when it's a good time or a bad time to use this phrase.

15. Learn to love yourself.

In order to love someone else, you have to love yourself first.

16. Don't compare yourself to others.

We all do it. It's a bad habit that only makes us feel worse about ourselves. Giving others compliments or noticing positive features in others is okay, but only as long as you can identify those good things about yourself too.

17. FOMO has got to go.

Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a real thing and as much as it sucks, you can get over it. Sometimes staying in and giving yourself some extra love is needed.

18. Spend money wisely.

Do you really need nine new shirts, thirteen pairs of leggings, and six pairs of gym shoes for this month alone? Probably not. Only buy things when you need them. If you do need them look for sales or discounts.

19. Drink less alcohol.

*Gasp* Yes. I did just say that. Your body and wallet will thank you. A drink now and then is okay, but binge drinking every weekend is not.

20. Look forward to new things.

When there's nothing fun or exciting going on in your life, plan. Make lists of things you've always wanted to do so you always have something to look forward to.