It can be so easy to get wrapped up in our own heads, thinking our problems are the end of the world. I'm so guilty of this--every negative event in my life is met with at least a full day's worth of freaking out, if not more. But this kind of behavior is unproductive and tiring.

Lately, I've been trying to tell myself, "It could be worse." I might have a lot going on--a lot of stressful events coming up, a lot of stressful bills to account for, a lot of stressful family drama to deal with--but for all those stressors, I have positive things going for me, too.

I might not make enough money to make ends meet every month, but I'm lucky enough to have not one, but three jobs. That's three more than a lot of people can say. I might have to worry about planning events, meetings, and more--but I'm able to get involved and assume leadership positions in the things I'm most passionate about. I might have a lot of family drama, but at least my family is alive and healthy.

I may not be in the best shape, but I'm healthy. I don't have any health issues to worry about. I may not have many friends, but the ones I do have are loyal and loving. I may not live in the same state as my boyfriend, but I'm still lucky enough to be in love with my best friend.

2018 is a year of changes for me--both big and small. One change I'm really striving towards is self-care and positivity. I've spent too much of the past 21 years being an irritated cynic; it's time I crawl out of the dark hole I've thrown myself into and enjoy the bright future I have in front of me.

My challenge this year to myself and my readers is to put things into perspective. Is your life really as bad as you say it is? Or could it be worse?

Chances are, it could always be worse.