Maybe I'm jumping the gun but I am incredibly excited for 2018. I love the idea of a New Year, full of new possibilities and ways to improve myself. Let's pause for a minute- Improve myself. New Year's Resolutions come into my mind....none of which I have ever actually followed through with. I don't think I am alone either when I look back at my lengthy list of failed resolutions.

It takes 30 days to make or break a habit. That alone is a challenge in itself. It's not easy to change one aspect of your life, let alone change multiple at the same time, as many of us try to do when January 1st rolls around. Maintaining a new habit leading towards a healthier lifestyle can be challenging when you have to go out of your way to complete it. Going to the gym every day? Waking up 30 minutes earlier in the morning? Reading a book each month? Yeah, forget it.

Sometimes, while these goals are great, starting small is a better option. When you aren't going out of your way too much to do something, whatever you're trying to accomplish won't be such a chore, and instead will form into a habit quicker that you can then build upon later. This probably sounds like common sense, but we all have been guilty of putting too much on our plates without making an honest change when it comes to goals and resolutions.

Based on my experience as a student-athlete and someone who always has too much going on, I have found three things in my life that I feel are key to living a healthy, and happier life. I swear by them, and the best part? They all require almost 0 effort to do. It's crazy, I know, but I'm serious. If you're looking for something new this coming year to help improve your lifestyle, keep reading.

1. Keep a water bottle with you at all times!

I cannot stress this point enough- drinking water is one of the best things you can do for your body, yet most of us don't drink enough of it. Drinking 8 glasses a day is not easy, especially when you're thinking about it. By carrying around a water bottle, you are more likely to drink water and stay hydrated. Read more about the benefits of water here.

2. Give yourself 5 minutes to be thankful.

Whether through prayer, reflection, journaling, or whatever method you feel is best, taking 5 minutes to be thankful for the good things in your life is key to being happy. Expressing gratitude helps to reduce stress, dissolve negative emotions, and build relationships with others (Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness). I find that taking 5 minutes before I go to sleep to do this helps me appreciate my day, and go to bed excited for tomorrow.

3. Carry around a physical to do list.

Odds are, you already carry around at least one, if not two (or more) schedules. If you don't already, add a to-do list to the mix. Carrying a physical list, not one on your phone, is SO rewarding. When you can cross off all of your tasks for the day, there is a sense of accomplishment and relief that is unlike any other. Just do it. It feels amazing and you will thank me later.

Hope you all find some use from this, and enjoy the new year! Be your best self!!