The year 2016 was life changing for me…but I can’t by any means say that it was the easiest. Many people are calling 2016 one of the worst years that our country has ever had and it’s hard for me not to agree with that statement. I believe we’re all so quick to complain about what makes our lives hard. We don’t like our jobs, our houses, our relationships, our bodies and many other things. So if we’re unhappy, why aren’t we changing it?

I’ve always giggled when I hear someone say “New year, new me!” because what does a loud countdown and a number changing at midnight really do to make you a new you? I guess I thought that this was silly until I sat down tonight and thought about why I was unhappy.

This year was hard for me because aside from a few friends, I was always surrounded by people who were toxic to my life. I became an unhappy person and it’s time to change it.

1. Cut it with the FOMO.

FOMO, aka the fear of missing out is real, but do you really care if you miss out with these people? If you’re not enjoying spending time with these people, don’t go.

2. Purge your social media.

When my “friends” left for colleges all around the country this year, I realized I didn’t really care to see their every move with their new lives. It’s nice to keep in touch with people but do you really care to see their roommate puking at 4AM on their snapchat story?

3. Stop hanging out with people who let you get off track with your goals.

It’s okay to have friends who have different ambitions than you do but don’t let them slow you down. Be the friend that makes them say “Wow. They really have it all together.”

4. Buy a planner.

Time can be hard to manage regardless of what you’re doing with your life and writing it down can help so much.

5. Don’t drink on weeknights.

Thirsty Thursday is cool and all but that Friday morning hangover on exam day is even worse. Cool people don’t drink on week nights.

6. Make time for yourself.

When was the last time you felt like you really were just doing something for you? Find something you like to do and that makes you feel good about YOU. Grab a book, go to the animal shelter, take a bath, or binge New Girl. Do whatever makes you feel bomb.

7. Exercise.

Just because you didn’t start on the first doesn’t mean ya can’t work out at all. Go buy some cute workout clothes and swing your pony at the gym.

8. Stop randomly hooking up with people.

This doesn’t need explaining. Is spending the night at a stranger’s house really helping your self-esteem?

9. Try that cool $5 idea.

Every time you break a bill paying for something and get a $5 bill back, put it away and save it. Don’t touch the money new year’s eve and be pleasantly surprised at all the money you’ve saved!!

This year had really amazing parts, like meeting my best friend, graduating from high school, my sister getting engaged. rescuing my sweet kitten, Callie, and starting my freshman year at Penn State University but I think there’s always way’s to make the new year better.

Cheers to 2017!!