Tis the time of year where gyms are full, new diets are beginning, and everyone is trying to complete their New Year's Resolution. Although it is wonderful to want to improve yourself, sometimes I feel that we do certain resolutions for others. We want to loose weight to fit society's standards of beauty or want to be a "new me" that isn't being authentic to ourselves. Sometimes we end up trying to change ourselves rather than trying to grow. Here are 12 new year's resolutions that will bring you happiness:

1. Look in the mirror every morning and give yourself one genuine compliment.

2. Start doing something you used to love but lost time for (like reading, writing, singing, knitting).

3. Start a new hobby and try to do it once a week. If you can't do it once a week- don't stress about it. Just try to do it again the next.

4. Treat yourself once a week. A coffee from Starbucks, a chocolate bar, an episode of your secret pleasure TV show... whatever suits you!

5. Stop searching for love and try and see the love you already have in your life. Love may find you a bit easier that way.

6. Try and go on more walks. They're good for the brain and for the soul.

7. Let go of one negative thing in your life. A toxic friend, that dress you shame yourself for not being able to fit in like you used to, or that picture of your ex on your phone.

8. Take more risks in whatever fashion you feel comfortable.

9. Listen to your body. Sleep when you need to. Eat when you need to. Laugh when you need to.

10. Give one compliment a day and watch the world around you become a lot more beautiful.

11. Tell someone in your life that you love them each and every day.

12. Remind yourself of one thing you accomplished before you go to bed each night.