Ringing in the new year is a precious time for those wanting to start over. Whether that be starting a new workout routine or a new reading list, we use this time to forgive our transgressions of the previous year and create a new and improved self. But it’s important to keep in mind that while you can make new choices this year to lead to a better, healthier lifestyle, it doesn’t necessarily mean your entire life is going to change, and that’s all right.

Make sure that when you are writing up that list of resolutions, you make changes that are actually feasible. It is easy to make small steps towards a goal, but trying to make a huge leap all at once might not always work out. You will feel much more rewarded by setting goals you can achieve than ones you are taking a real gamble on. Maybe instead of making big changes to your daily routine that don’t stick, you focus on simple things that can make you feel happier each day.

This year, focus on yourself. Focus on the things that make you happy, the things that give you the motivation to get out of bed every morning. Don’t get so wrapped up in trivial matters, and be sure to set aside time for your hobbies, passions, and even just spending time with people you care about.

It’s easy to make a resolution to study harder, exercise more, and work harder towards your future, make more money, and so on. While these things are respectable goals, they may not be the ones you look back on and define yourself with at the end of the year.

Let’s face it: a year from now, you aren’t going to remember what you got on that one test, or how many ab crunches you were able to do at the gym. One thing you will remember is the memories you made along the way. I doubt on New Year's Eve you will be at a party thinking about how many burgers you did or didn’t eat. You’ll probably be laughing with friends and family and reminiscing on all the good times you had together this year.

So shouldn’t you focus your resolutions towards those moments?

This year set goals to bring you closer to those around you. Work towards learning something new about the world, or even about yourself. Take small steps to a better you, the you that you want to be. Don’t waste your time with large changes just because you feel like you have to. The new year is a perfect time to start over if need be, but maybe you like things the way they are now, and that’s fine too. When the ball drops, think about the past and look towards the future, and don’t forget that the best you will come with or without a New Year’s resolution.