New Years' resolutions are so fun and never dumb.
I always hate hearing people say, "You shouldn't wait for a new year to improve yourself."
I can see where they are coming from, but it's not wrong to be excited for a whole new year. A lot can happen in a year, and if the new year gives you the motivation to help better yourself, then I say go for it.
Ever since I was a little girl, I always wrote down my New Years' resolutions, and as I got older, I started writing down my reflection of the year I had as well. I think it's so important to just sit down and reflect on your year, the memories you made, and the mistakes you made. It allows you to be able to really think about what made you happy and what didn't.
If something didn't make you happy, then how can you change that?
This year, like every other year, I wrote in my journal again reflecting on everything and writing down my New Years' resolutions. This has always been something so personal to me, but in a way, Odyssey has become a sort of outlet and diary for me.
I thought maybe it was time to share some of my resolutions.
1. Leave one-sided friendships ALONE.
I am very lucky to have some really amazing friends, but I'm not saying I haven't had my fair share of one-sided friendships. As we all get older, our lives get busier. I always don't have the time to see my friends and that's okay. We all understand we're busy, and I think that's so great we all recognize that.
But if you have friends you never hear from unless you reach out first, then that's not a healthy balance. Both friends should reach out once in a while, even if it's just a simple "How are you?" If you notice you're always putting in the work, then maybe you should talk to that friend.
If you see nothing changes, then maybe that's your sign that it isn't worth your time anymore. Letting go of one-sided friendships is okay, so don't feel guilty about it.
2. Chill out with finding "the one."
I love to love, and I'm not scared to admit that. I'm pretty sure everyone wants to find their Prince Charming, but finding "the one" isn't something to stress about.
God will send me the one when it's time. I know He has a plan for me and I need to just let it happen and stop trying to control things. I know it will all work out like it's supposed to in the end.
So, for now, live in the moment and stop worrying about time and finding "the one."
3. Say yes to YOURSELF MORE!
It's time to stop feeling bad when you have to say no to things. I get that it's great to make everyone happy, but it's time to say yes to yourself more, too.
Say yes to things out of your comfort zone. Start doing things you love more and stop worrying about why someone might not understand it. Say yes and no. Learn a healthy balance between the two.
If you start finding yourself saying yes to things that don't 100% make you happy, then change that. You matter, and so does your happiness.
4. Meditate more.
Meditating and journaling are my two favorite things to do in the morning. Meditating is so relaxing and helps you start your day, but it can be hard to do in a crazy schedule.
I hate to admit I haven't been able to do it much because it was hard for me to find time during my hectic school schedule. I want it to be part of my daily routine again and that's one of my main resolutions this year. Meditating allows me to de-stress and relax.
These were only some of my resolutions I wrote down this year. I encourage everyone to make a list or even just sitting down and thinking of ways to make this year the best year yet.
I wish everyone a Happy New Year, and I hope the year brings you happiness and love.