With the new year coming up there is always one thing on people's minds: new years resolutions. People see the new year as a fresh start. On January 1st everyone comes up with goals for the new year and things they want to accomplish, which they may or may not follow through on. But, making a new's year resolution is a good thing, and here is why.

1. It gives you a chance to reflect on the past year.

You can look back on everything you did in the previous year. Some people, with the year, gain weight, have breakups or makeups, and bad grades, but by reflecting on these they can truly improve on their lives overall. By making them you can make your new year better than the previous year.

2. It can be a fresh start.

No, it might not erase the past or change things, but symbolically it is a new start. Many people use the phrase "new year, new me" I believe this is very true. Didn't get a chance to workout this year? Do it next year. You've always wanted to get a tattoo? Do it, live a little. It can give you the opportunity to take risks and step out of your comfort zone and grow.

3. You come up with realistic and good goals.

By looking back at the past you can more accurately look forward to the future. If you write down your goals you can accomplish them. If you write short term and long term goals you can complete them. With the new year you can have an open mind and think of so many new opportunities.

4. You CAN change your lifestyle.

Some people decide that they just want to out more and get healthy and workout for a week and then are done. This doesn't have to be everyone though, I know this from experience. Set small goals and push through them. A goal that started out as something small can become something huge. That person that sticks with working out and getting healthy can lead to a healthier lifestyle and them losing 30 pounds. New Years resolutions aren't a waste like some people say.

Even though not everyone makes New Years resolutions, they should, because they can change your life for the better. They aren't just something that changes your life short term, they can truly be long term. Making a New Years resolution can change your life, just like it did mine.