Because I've had a lot of experience with full-blown panic attacks from stressing over school while simultaneously dealing with life's problems, I've slowly learned how to keep a positive mindset and keep my mental state as healthy as possible (which is not easy to do). Since high school, my goals have always been to work as hard as I can in school, have everything else together (responsibility-wise) in life and just not fall apart... though that's exactly what happened many times, anyway. So now that I am going into my third year of college, I'm so thankful and proud of myself to have made small yet impactful changes in my life that have helped control my anxiety, relieve stress and get me through each day without so much weight on my shoulders carrying me down.

I wanted to share the few tips I can give that I believe will help others just in case you're looking for the same answer I was looking for when in the same crappy position. Stress can really damage you emotionally, physically and mentally. One thing that is very hard to realize and understand is that no one is perfect. As a person, you can only do SO much. So if you've been waiting for a sign, this is that sign! Start putting yourself first and focus on making these small changes little by little to benefit yourself. If the someone decides to complain, take your attention away from your goal, or blame you for their problems... you need to drop that person (or thing) ASAP...and that's only step one.

1. Reduce any negativity surrounding you.

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This means any negative things and/or people in your life. Having so much negativity around you can make your stress/anxiety/depression/etc. a lot harder to deal with. It's way too easy to get caught up in another person's vibe and energy; therefore, if you're constantly around something that is bringing your mood down or causing stress, you need to slowly let it go for the benefit of your happiness. This is one of the major keys to getting better and finding a brighter vibe in your everyday life.

2. Give yourself "me" time.

Meditating by the shore

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It took me years to figure out why this was so important for my mind and body. Making time for yourself is the most important thing you can ever give yourself. Each day, you must take at least 10 minutes to just shut everything down and pause. Take a moment to breathe, read a chapter of your favorite book, listen to calming music, go run for ten minutes—anything to give yourself time to get away from life and keep yourself in one piece. Throughout time, you will feel the change in energy and stress in your daily routines. You'll feel less stressed out and more at ease.

3. Travel!

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Whether it is an hour away or a plane flight ahead, making mini-trips to any place that interests you will keep you motivated and excited to keep wanting to work hard and save up for the future plans. I've been able to visit places like Los Angeles, Disneyland (countless times, really), Chicago, Mexico and more. It makes me excited for my future and going with the best people can create the best memories!

4. Try new things.

Taking a Painting class

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Trying new things means you are keeping yourself busy. That is the BEST reward you can give yourself. Ever. Go learn how to dance, take a painting class, head to the beach more often, go on hikes, watch new movies, read new books, learn how to cook. Do whatever it takes to keep your mind distracted! This is going to help you keep yourself fresh and always on the go.

5. Stay up, stay strong, and stay moving.

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Last but not least, STAY ACTIVE! It really isn't safe to sit around day after day, moping around and being lazy. That is going to make you feel worse! Get up, and get OUT THERE. Even if you just walk along the beach, that is going to make you feel somewhat productive. I normally dance or walk along the beach at sunset while taking my dog so that we both get some type of exercise. Staying productive, being physically active and being on the go will keep your energy going. You won't feel so low and gloomy all the time anymore.

These five tips will be great ways to get yourself up and wanting to make room for more positivity in your life. You might not believe these tips will make a huge difference, but throughout time you will definitely see a change. After almost a year of making these changes little by little, I have noticed I am able to control my stress more than I used to. I am now able to always realize when I need a moment to myself, what I can and cannot control in life and how to worry about me more than anyone else. I have never felt so much more positivity in so long until I made myself my number one priority. So go ahead, make these changes and make your life happier.