For me, 2016 was filled with more than enough life lessons and realizations. I couldn’t be any more thankful for the events that took place over the past year and I cannot wait to see what’s in store in all of my years to come.

1. “New year, new me,” isn’t a stupid saying. If you want to make changes, why not use the start of the new year as motivation to be better than you once were?

2. You can be there for someone without physically being there. Sometimes physically being there isn’t an option, so do what you can to show that you care.

3. You cannot simultaneously make everybody in your life happy and keep your own sanity.

4. You never know when the last time is the last time.

5. Children look up to you more than you know. They watch every move you make and listen to every word you say. They’re also very curious, so teach them something new; Answer their questions.

6. Life is too short to spend it by having bad days; Find something to smile about.

7. Mental health disorders are real and should never, ever be overlooked.

8. School is stressful, but it’s always worth it in the end.

9. You do not have to be blood-related in order to be family.

10. It’s okay to spend your money on yourself sometimes; Treat yo'self.

11. Take the breaks you deserve.

12. Wiener dog races are way cooler in person versus the video clips you can watch on YouTube.

13. If something doesn’t click with you, eliminate it.

14. Do not let toxic people dictate your moods and thoughts; I pinky promise you they don’t matter.

15. You do not have to agree to be everyone’s DD.

16. You never know what kind of impact you have on another soul, so choose your words, actions, and intentions wisely. People are always watching.