Beautiful soul, be fearless this year. Whatever happened this past year, know it is just that: in the past. Don’t let whatever has gotten you down discourage you from making this year amazing. Make resolutions, even if you are afraid you won’t keep them. Be ambitious. Continue to search for and practice whatever makes you happiest. My family always told me to live a life that makes you feel closest to God and yourself. From personal experience, I’ve found that when you do, it means you are pursuing a life you love.

Continue to make new relationships and strengthen the bonds of those who you are closest to. Your tribe should be the ones to inspire you to be the best possible version of yourself. Make sure you are surrounded by people who love and support you unconditionally, and who encourage you to take life’s opportunities. Know that you deserve to put yourself first too. It can be hard to prioritize everything going on in your life, just remember that happiness should be your ultimate goal.

In a world that focuses on the bad, challenge yourself to look at all the good. Be humbled by all the blessings in your life. Do not model your expectations of happiness from someone else’s life; model them from your own experiences. This wonderful, crazy world is full of opportunity so don’t be afraid to try something new. As they say, you won’t know unless you try.

Do not be afraid to cut unnecessary and stressful things from of your life, even if it is hard. Whether that means toxic people, relationships, or habits, there is no need to have that kind of negativity in your life. Doing so allows you to devote more time to creating a life filled with things that really matter. Remember, there is no reason to hold on to those who take away from your happiness for fear of being alone. There are always others out there who can bring light to your life. Sometimes we have to learn how to be alone before we can find others. It can be one of life’s many tests.

Whatever intimidates you about the new year, know that you can conquer it. I know what each and every one of us are capable of. We have all gone through our own personal hell, and some of us may even still be there. But know that these moments are all just some of life’s many tests, and from them, we become even more amazing souls.

The moral of the story is to not be afraid this year. Let fearlessness become your greatest asset. Embrace all that you are and strive to make every day count. Everyone makes mistakes, and there is a good chance you will make some in the months to come, but life is never truly lived if you don’t step out of your comfort zone. So take risks. Put yourself out there. Take advantage of opportunities that come your way. If anything, don’t dismiss chances out of fear. Life usually isn’t practical so learn how to embrace it and see where the ride takes you. Here’s to you, being fearless and making this year yours.