As we enter the new year I want people to think about ideas for possible New Year's’ resolutions. I do not know about the rest of you, but 2016 was a long drawn out year and I am so ready to start fresh. I know that people will make resolutions like go to the gym, save more money, travel or eat healthier, but focusing on yourself should be everyone's resolution that they should attempt to complete this year. I think that with so many things going on, we as human beings are so focused on what is going on around us that we forget about ourselves. 2017 is the year we should focus on getting our lives together and progressing.

As human beings, we are social creatures and always feel that we must do things with other people, but doing things by yourself is actually something that is totally acceptable. I know that doing things by yourself may make you feel uncomfortable, but you got to get out of your comfort zone. I know some people do not think it is acceptable to do things alone because they are so worried about what other people think, but doing things by yourself can teach you not only independence, but it gives you time to completely do a self-reflection. We all need to reflect sometimes in order to see how far we have come and be inspired for our future, but with reflecting we must be sure we are not dwelling on the past because remember the present is where you are. Try going to a restaurant alone. As scary as that may seem you may find fulfillment in people watching, enjoy a great meal, reading a book or get some work done. All I am saying is give yourself the gift of empowerment this year that no one can give you.

This isn’t to say you shouldn’t ask for help if you need it, but let's not be completely dependent on others for happiness. Make yourself happy, because that is the most important thing and the best resolution out there and the rest of your resolutions will shortly follow. You’ll be able to knock out anything on that list this year.It is important that we love ourselves for who we are and in doing things by ourselves we prove to ourselves that we can, in fact, accomplish tasks on our own. It is the most satisfying feeling to complete something by yourself! The amount of accomplishment you feel because it was all you, will give you confidence for other areas of your life. Confidence is the key success and part of that comes from getting know yourself. 2017 is the year of internal progression and confidence. So go out there and make your mark.