At the beginning of a new year, many people make resolutions to change their life for the better. This usually involves eating healthier, going to the gym, or spending less money. While setting big goals can be beneficial to some, most people don't stick to their new year's resolutions (me being one of them). I decided to try a new approach to making 2017 a better year than 2016. I made a list of ways I thought I could improve my life overall this year, basically a list of things to keep in mind as I move through my year.
1. Make yourself happy before anyone else.
If you aren't happy with yourself then you can't expect someone else to make you happy.
2. Be you.
Do not hide who you really are. Let people like you for you, not who you make yourself into.
3. Focus on all the good, not on all the bad.
It's easy to get caught up in everything that isn't going right. Focusing on the good makes for a better mood, less stress, and a better life.
4. Stop skipping class.
Seriously.
5. Appreciate everything you have.
We live in a society where having more is better, but that's not always the case. You can't get everything you want. Appreciate what you have and it will reduce your urge of wanting more.
6. Spend more time on schoolwork. Stop procrastinating.
Wait until after you finish your assignments and studying to watch that show or movie. Get off your phone and actually pay attention to the readings and homework assignments for more than 5 minutes at a time.
7. Take the right things seriously.
Many people get caught up in the small things and things that honestly don't matter. This leaves so much less time for the most important aspects of your life. Take your schoolwork, friends, and family seriously.
8. Prioritize.
Do your schoolwork before you go out with friends. Skip going out if you have a huge test to study for. Just know what's truly important to get done.
9. Reduce unnecessary spending.
You don't need that new dress or that pair of shoes or even that pizza.
10. Admit your failures and actually learn from them.
It can be hard to admit that you're wrong or that you failed, but owning up to it and figuring out how you can do better next time is the best thing you can do.
11. Make time for things you enjoy doing.
12. Worry less about social media, likes, and popularity.
Do your real friends really care about how many likes you get on Instagram? No. Focus on the people right in front of you, not people behind a screen.
13. Do what's best for you.
Don't do something just because all your friends are doing it. Don't put yourself at risk to help someone who wouldn't do that same for you. Put yourself first sometimes.
14. Be nicer to everyone around you.
Compliment people, help them out when you can, be a better friend, etc.
15. Let the small things go.
Some things just aren't worth worrying about.
16. Declutter your life.
Donate clothes you don't wear anymore, throw away things that are broken, keep only what you need and use. You will feel so much better afterwards.
17. Try your best in everything you do.
Don't slack off.
