So just like many other people, 2016 was probably the worst year of my life so far. Not for one particular reason, it just seemed like there were many different things that were working against me and my ambitions, goals, and beliefs. I will admit that I, unfortunately, let a lot of it get to me and let other people and things beyond my control affect how I saw the world and how I saw myself. I already feel like 2017 will be my year and if not my year, a much better year than the previous few. I am making plans and my life seems to be coming back together after shattering in 2016. I lost a lot of who I was and the things I liked about myself and this year I am going to get back into it.

It seems like everyone has the same New Year’s resolution: get healthy. It is something everyone wants but for some reason it is really hard for nearly everyone to do. Personally, if things in my life go wrong, I lose motivation to do most other things, including taking care of my body. I am not going to make an impossible goal that I can’t maintain. I want to eat something green every day and try to do a good workout at least three times a week. I would, of course, love to work out more than that. Workouts like running, biking, and yoga are nearly the only things that clear my anxious mind and I want to find more peace in my life this year. I think feeling better will make me happier on the outside as well.

Another important goal for me is to spend less time on my phone. I feel like I literally stare at my phone screen more than I do anything else. I think looking at social media as much as I do has got to be bad for my self-esteem. Comparing myself to other people’s highlights and snap chatting instead of calling is annoying. I want to be better at seeing my loved ones in person or at least talking to them on the phone.

I also want to say yes more. I believe everyone has at least one regret about something they wish they would have done but said no to it for some reason. I want to do something just because it is fun. No reason other than it might produce a good story, go out on a limb and try something new. I will apply for jobs that I just like and say yes if I am invited somewhere, even if it might be more comfortable to stay safe in my own room.

The final goal I have for the new year is to get back into it. This can be applicable to anyone, get back into the things that make you happy and successful. For me, this includes performance/music, fitness, reading for pleasure, and school work. I regrettably let pretty much all of those slide this past semester. Whatever you love, do more of it. It is that simple. Why would you not do the things that make you happy?

I essentially want to make this year more relaxing and just do more things that make me happy. I think these are great resolutions for anyone reading this. I hope 2017 brings you so much joy, laughter, and love. I hope you discover more of who you want to be and make relationships and goals this year that will change your life for the better.