A new year in quickly approaching, and with it, a since of optimisim. We look forward to the future year as a blank page in an old book. Before you begin to create the next chapter of your story, you must remember these simple tips.

1. This is your life.

You are your own person and no one can tell you otherwise. Stop worrying what everyone else thinks about you and be the person you want to be

2. Stop saying sorry.

Never apologize for being yourself. We do it on a daily basis, whether we are apologizing for our past or for not wanting someone in our future, it's toxic. It's okay to say your sorry for hurting someone but never for how you feel.

3. Give yourself some credit.

You rock. No matter how much you show up late or forget your schedule, everyone messes up and it really is okay.

4. Don't sink below your worth.

The moment you start to settle, your self worth will diminish and you will feel unworthy of happiness. You're only doing it to yourself.

5. If it doesn't benefit you or your character in anyway, let it go.

Sometimes is hurts more to hang on then to let go. If you aren't happy or are not growing in some way then leave. If someone wants you to do something that you know will not improve your character and will only hurt you, don't do it.

6.New Years resolutions only work if you want it bad enough.

No matter how many lists, charts and Pinterest boards you make, change takes action, not words.

7.adventures > material objects.

The places you go, people you see and memories you make will always be worth a million times whatever you can pay.

8. Family is everything.

Whether by blood or by heart, keep your family close. These are your people, these are your go-to, your supporters and biggest fans.

9. Know who your real friends are

Nothing hurts more than being led on or used by someone you trusted. Don't be scared to get close to someone but learn to tell the difference from a true friend and someone that only benefits themselves.

10. Be comfortable in your own skin.

This is who you are and who you will always be. Love who you are and the rest of the world will too.

11. You are working towards a future.

It's easy to dream about better days and blissful memories yet to be. However, everything you do now will effect that future and play a role in your success and happiness later on in life.

12. Never forget the past but grow from it.

The past is a part of who we are, it isn't enough to push it aside. Instead, learn from it. Take all the pain, heartache and mistakes and use it to grow and to become the person you've always wanted to be.

13. There's always room for improvement.

It is very important to recognize your achievements and to celebrate moments you are proud of but never believe you have reached your full potential. The greater you are, the greater you can become. Never stop pushing yourself. Never stop believing in yourself.

14.It's okay to move on.

There's a time to reflect on things and a time for moving on. Know the difference. Learn not to rush your healing process but also know when to get up, dry your tears and live your life.

15. You have to figure things out on your own.

It's great to get advice and to listen to friends and family that have been in similar situations to yourself. It's okay to not listen sometimes. Always take other's advice into consideration but know that sometimes we have to figure things out on our own. Your living for your future , not someone else's past.

16. Believe there is good in the world.

Above all, never give up hope. Have faith in the world, others and most importantly yourself. If something isn't to your liking, change it.