I am ready to say goodbye to 2016. It was a year of hardship, tears, losses, goodbyes and regrets. One of the brightest parts of the upcoming new year is that it’s a chance to make real changes. I know that I am lucky enough to have 365 more trips around the sun. I want to challenge myself this year, redeem myself and make 2017 a year to remember. Here are some vows I’m taking to get there:
1. Be kind even when it feels like a chore.
Bad days are going to happen. You cannot avoid miserable days, but you can make someone else’s better. There will be times that you will want to be rude to the barista at Starbucks or send a half-assed reply to the slacker in your group project. Don’t do it. Instead, chose to smile and be kind even when it seems impossible. You’ll feel better about yourself and spread some positivity to those who really need it.
2. Invest in your own health.
Make changes every day to take care of your body and mind. Drink more water, take your medicine, pray, exercise and eat your veggies. Keep up to date with your doctor’s appointments. Eat less processed sugar and more fresh fruits. Turn off social media by 10 PM every night. Keep a to-do list and agenda for your school work. Do what you need to do to stay happy.
3. Accomplish something every day.
Accomplishments do not have to be big or extravagant to mean something. Sometimes an accomplishment can be something like drinking enough water or finishing the paper you’ve been procrastinating on. Make a point to do something every day that makes you feel proud. Slowly, you’ll find that you are getting things done on time, and feel a lot better about your self-worth.
4. Stop caring what other people think.
Allowing other people to be the thieves of your happiness will ruin your self-image. Focus more on the things you love and what makes you smile. If you want to wear an outfit you adore, quit wondering what everyone will think. Want to wear blue lipstick today? Rock it, girl. You are the captain of this ship. Never let other people control what you do or don’t do.
5. Let your academics be your main priority.
This past year some other things may have gotten in the way of you doing your best. Remind yourself that the work you are putting into your school work now is what will guide you into your dream job later on down the road. It’s time to put your best foot forward and accomplish the goals you know are attainable.
6. Overall, be happy.
Happiness is a choice. Whether you are affected my mental illness, poverty, medical concerns, family problems, it all may seem out of your control. But, you can control how you react to your life’s difficulties. Focus on the good parts of your life and make a solid attempt every day to be happier. When we stop letting the bad stuff get us down, we can rise to the occasion of a fulfilling day-to-day life.
So, let's do this, 2017. I'm ready.
