It's that time again where we wrap up 2016 and head into the new year. For a lot of people, it's a new beginning and for others, it's just another day. Many of us make some sort of new year's resolution with the most popular being weight loss, but how many of us actually stick with it? There are a few things that you can do that will make your year better than the last even if it is a slight difference. They're easy to stick to and they are things that you can do everyday, not to mention that they really aren't that difficult and don't take much effort.

1. Smile more

Whether you are walking down the street or you are in the comfort of your own home, there are always reasons to smile. Smiling makes you feel happy even if you aren't.

2. ... And laugh more too

Who cares about the laugh lines that make crease your makeup or leave a slight wrinkle on your face. Laughing helps you live longer, or so i've heard. Watch your favorite tv show, read a funny book or even go see some stand-up comedy. While doing any of those things, you'll also smile which goes hand-in-hand with number one. Another perk; laughing enough helps your abs... even if they are imaginary.

3. Say please and thank you more often

Having polite manners is a given, but saying these two simple words can brighten a person's day. It's always reassuring to be thanked for something so small such as holding a door open for someone.

4. Drink more water

This might contribute to one of your new year's resolutions such as weight loss or trying to cut down on something such as soda or alcohol. Water keeps you healthy, filled, and happy. It also helps achieve clearer skin. It's easy enough to squeeze in a bottle of water or two into your day. It'll make you feel so much better, trust me.

5. Walk

Going on short walks is so good for you. If your goal this new year is to be healthier, this will help so much. I know some of us aren't a huge fan of exercise or we might go to the gym for a week and slowly give up, but walking is exercise and isn't straining or difficult at all.

6. Read more books

A lot of people don't like reading, but I think they just haven't found the right book yet. Reading a few pages a day on a lunch break or before bed is easy and can help you clear your mind of any anxiety and stress you may have. Reading also makes you smarter. Who knows, maybe you'll start to like it.

These are just a few things you can do to have a happier and healthier new year. They're small, but overtime they can be very beneficial. There's so many more things you can do such as doing something out of your comfort zone, getting more sleep, or even trying to get organized. I just picked the easiest ones, but the list can go on forever. 2017 is filled with endless possibilities so take advantage of every opportunity you have and live to your fullest potential. Let's make this the best year we've had so far!