2016 is fast approaching, which means 2015 is soon going to be just another year in the books. This year was filled with lots of laughs, smiles, cries, and lessons. Each year I learn something different, and 2015 was definitely the year I learned and possibly changed the most. 2015, for me, was a year of realization as well as a year of mistakes that turned out to teach me a lot about myself and others.

By the time the holidays come a lot of us say, "Thank goodness this year is almost over" or "I can't wait for a new year," and we end up finding ourselves saying that almost every year. There are several ways though to help ensure that we actually make 2016 the best year yet, hoping that maybe at the end of it we may say, "This was the best year yet."

1. A more positive attitude

They say that the quality of your life is determined by the quality of your thoughts, and it couldn't be more true. Try waking up each morning with one positive thought and your day won't feel as awful as it does (particularly on Mondays). Remember that every day may not be a good day, but there is something good in every day.

2. Focus on the important people in your life

Life is short, so make sure you are actually spending quality time with quality people. We are way too focused on the drama in our lives, and especially with the people who keep causing the drama. Spend your life with the people who actually matter and make you happy.

3. Take time off from your phone, laptop, etc.

Technology has taken over our world, and we spend a lot of our time talking to our friends more over social media than we do in person. Pick your head up from your phone's screen once in a while and maybe you'll see something different or see someone you recognize. Life is a lot more interesting when you experience it non-virtually.

4. Set goals for yourself throughout the year

Whether your goals are big or small, it's still an accomplishment once you achieve it. Set a goal, develop a plan, and strive to attain it.

5. Face a fear of yours

Your fears set you back because you let them. I know it's a very powerful feeling, but you can get over your fear, whatever it is. It definitely takes time, but start off with just getting over a simple fear of yours and working your way up to your biggest one. Every time you defeat your fear it will give you a feeling of strength, confidence, and courage, and it feels really good.

6. Smile at strangers

Don't you love it when total strangers just give you a simple smile as you walk past them? I always appreciate that, and I'm sure if you smile at strangers then they'll appreciate it just as much as you do. Your smile just may brighten up their day.

7. Drink lots of water

I drink at least a gallon of water every day, but that's also because I don't drink anything else except coffee on some days. Water is literally the best thing you could drink -- it tastes great and it will make you feel great.

8. Start writing in a journal

Your life's story is worth taking down. Writing in a journal is a good stress reliever, and it is great if you ever want to look back on your past someday. It also helps you recognize what is and isn't important in your life. A journal eases your mind and it gives you some down time to reconnect with yourself

9. Take some risks

As I said before, life is short and if you live in your comfort zone all your life you won't get to where you want to be in life. The greatest risk you can take is living risk-less and settling for average. You are capable of greatness, so start living like it.

10. Stop comparing and accept yourself

For your own sanity, please stop comparing yourself. All it does is give you negative thoughts and feelings about your own self, and you don't deserve that. We all don't look the same for a reason. Each and every one of us is beautiful in our own way. Start accepting yourself because once you do that, you will be radiant.