You've toasted champagne, you've made a list of resolutions, and you've looked back on 2016 and probably said "Thanks for the memories even though they weren't so great." 2016 had a lot of great moments, but also way too many low ones, too. Jumping into a new year has never seemed so appealing to everyone as a collective until this year.

So, you might as well start it off right. Here are a few tips to get you going:

1. Start off fresh

This means clearing out the old and making room for the new. Whether that means deciding what clothes you'd like to donate or what people in your life are affecting you more negatively than positively, starting off the year with things that are useful, beneficial, and positive in your life is important.

2. Get organized

Everyone always says they'd like to get organized in the new year, so mean it this time! Organize things for work or school since they're of high importance, and then tackle things like your DVD collection or your walk-in closet.

3. Make a list of (realistic) goals

Make a list of realistic things you'd like to accomplish in the upcoming year. They can be as small as "go skiing", "make dean's list", or as big as "get a promotion at my job" or "travel to Asia for a month". Whatever you can plausibly see yourself doing this year, write it down.

4. Make a "dream" list/bucket list

Make a list of things you've always dreamed of doing, things that seem way far off from possibility. Especially the things you don't think you'll be able to do in the new year. I do this whenever I start to feel uninspired or like I have no idea where I'm going with my life. It always restores my faith a little bit and allows you to see if it's possible to do any of your dreams within the next 2, 5, or 10 years.

5. Enjoy yourself

You can make lists on lists of fun things you'd like to do, but lists are nothing until you do the things that bring you happiness in your day to day life and surround yourself with people who provide you with love and support. Make goals and work hard, but don't forget to look around yourself once in awhile and take in all the things and people you're so lucky to have.

I wish you a happy New Year, and let's strive to make 2017 way better than 2016.