I'm not going to lie, New Year's resolutions are really hard to stick to. I mean, how many of us typically even remember they still exist by week 2 or 3? Or maybe you do remember and just can't seem to muster up the energy to see them through. But you set these goals for yourself, right? Why not actually see them through this time?

This is not a case of "New Year, New Me." Yes, this is a new year with a presented chance to have a fresh start out of the 2017 gates. However, this is not about creating a new you, but a more determined, focused, improved version of your best self. So reflect on 2016 and all that came with it. Think about its highs and its lows, your successes and your failures. What aspects of yourself in the previous year are traits you want to carry into 2017? What areas do you hope to learn from and improve upon this year? The main thing you have to ask yourself is: How do I continue to work toward the best version of myself?

And whatever you do, no matter what comes your way, don't give up on yourself. Because you deserve it. When you're ready to take the easy way out and quit, keep going. When people look at you with a doubting face, prove them wrong. When you start reverting to your old ways, don't count yourself out. Recognize when you slip up, remind yourself of your motivations, and keep working.

Whether you are working on your health, fitness, self-love, relationships, career, hobbies, finances, school — anything! Don't give up on yourself. Make 2017 different. This is the year to introduce to the world the best version of yourself. This is the year to finally achieve those goals you have always dreamed of, to right any wrongs, to surprise yourself — and maybe even a few people along the way.

Because, at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if you are choosing to improve on January 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th ... or 31st. What matters is you've decided to keep working on yourself — a never-ending work in progress. And if you ask me, there's nothing more worthy of investing in than yourself. Let's make this year different. Let's make this year one to remember, filled with decisions you'll never regret. Let's make 2017 a year worth sticking to.