All around the globe sentiments of improvement can be witnessed from nearly every human being. Parties are thrown to initiate the start of a new year, New Year's resolutions are drawn up, and social media is flooded with statements like "New year, new me". In the past, I was certainly no stranger to any of these things. I too made New Year's resolutions and wholeheartedly believed I would stick to them only to find them abandoned a few days later. This year, however, as I sat cherishing the last few minutes of the 2015 I found myself wondering if the start of a new year truly calls for a "new you". Perhaps, instead, it serves to implement an older, wiser, improved you that learns to leave certain aspects of life in the past...
In the past few weeks I have worked to implement the following ideals into my day to day life, and have found myself in a happier place. I only hope that some of these ideas will have an impact on your life like they did mine...
1. Leave behind insecurity
Embrace the person you truly are. Learn to love yourself for your unique qualities and recognize that no one else can contribute what you can to this world. You are a masterpiece, it is time you started treating yourself as one!
2. Leave behind fear of the unknown
Life is this big, beautiful mystery that continually keeps us on our toes. Instead of fighting that unknown, maybe it is time to jump into it head first. Some of the greatest journeys start under the most unpredictable circumstances, you may miss yours if you're too busy fearing what it may bring.
3. Leave behind any regrets you held
Many wise people have said that it is impossible to move forward while still looking back. Those old grudges and regrets that have taken up residence in your heart have overstayed their welcome. Let each and every one of them go, knowing that it will lead to a healthier and happier you.
4. Leave behind the negativity you experienced
It's been said before, but positivity is truly key. Believing that good things will come may seem naive, but it's certainly better than believing the opposite. I will never forget asking a friend "Do you see the glass half-full or half-empty?", to which she replied "I'm just happy to have a glass!".
5. Leave behind preconceived notions and labels
There is no way to know what types of things another human being has been through. Therefore, it is absolutely silly of us to try and label someone. Do not fall victim to gossip and stereotypes. Rise above and prove to be the example that others will follow.
6. Leave behind vices
Each and every person has something, or maybe even someone, they turn to when the going gets tough. Recognize which outlets of expression are healthy and those that are not. Get rid of toxic relationships or addictions. Do not let them rule your life any longer.
7. Leave behind procrastination
"There is always tomorrow" is a phrase that has been uttered by every human being ever. Resist this! Do not put off something that you could do today. Imagine how great it will feel when you have finished!
8. Leave behind societies standards to "fit in"
You were not meant to fit in, you were born to stand out. Do not ever change yourself to fit the cookie cutter profile society claims it wants. You are unique, and that is so much more valuable than common.
9. Leave behind the words "I Can't"
You can, and you will. The only way to ever overcome any hurdle is with determination. Using the words "I can't" is admitting defeat before the battle has even begun. You are strong, and YOU CAN.
10. Leave behind plans
This is a new year, and even if it is the same you, life has a few curveballs up its sleeve. Remember to roll with the punches and cherish every minute because you really do only live once...
