Every year for New Year's people make the same resolutions. You always hear people who make it a goal to lose weight, to go to the gym more, eat healthier, meet more people, get enough sleep, find a boyfriend or girlfriend, spend less time on social media, or talk to their parents more but no one really keeps up with any of those. Instead of trying to keep the same old resolutions every year, try these.

1. Learn an instrument.

They say music helps dexterity and critical thinking. Also, chicks dig guys who play guitars. It can be challenging to pick up a new skill, especially one that utilizes so much of your brain, so try it with a friend! Who knows, maybe it is a hidden talent you never knew you had! You could become a rock star all because your New Year's resolution was to learn an instrument, not go to the gym more.

2. Read more (not school related).

Read books, magazines, or even articles! May I suggest the Odyssey? But really, most people in their 20's hardly read for fun at all. All throughout high school and so far in college I've had to read so much for school the last thing I want to do is read for fun. If we take a little bit of time out of our day or at the end of the week (or even just devoting one day) to reading, we'll learn a little bit more about the world (or you can reread "Harry Potter," whatever makes you happy).

3. Do good deeds every day.

One of the best feelings in life is the satisfaction and reward of helping someone. Whether that is helping your mom unload the dishwasher so she can sit down and rest her feet or throwing away trash when you know it wasn't yours, it is nice to know that you are going to sleep leaving the world just a tiny bit better.

4. Smile more.

The world would be a much better place if everyone smiled a little more. It has been said, "you're never fully dressed without a smile," and I think that definitely rings true. If you put positivity out into the world, you're more likely to get some back. I would much rather be smiled at than scowled at by someone on the street.

5. Change your body.

Instead of making it a goal to go to the gym every day or to go on a crazy diet, just make a promise to yourself that you'll do something to change your body for the better. That could be eating carrot sticks instead of chips once a week or taking a walk when you feel stressed. Eventually, the little things add up and you will notice a difference in your body. Once you start noticing a difference, it is so much easier to motivate yourself and push harder.