The time has finally come too get out with the old and pop in with the new. 2019 is finally here and there's a fresh start for everyone. This is the time to try new things and embrace a change in your life. This is the year of happiness and happiness comes in many shapes and sizes. It's time to live your life how you need too and I have a few tips on how to pursue things in your life that makes you happy.

1. Happiness is a gift. 

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I know that the subline may seem questionable, but let me explain. Happiness is a gift and it should be viewed as something earned and given. You can give yourself happiness or others can help produce happiness. Being happy is reaching a level of peace and joy with yourself or something you care for. That's not the textbook definition of happy, but it's my definition. It is a gift because it will always come at the right time. It may not seem like it sometimes, but happiness is formed from many attributes.

2. What makes you happy?

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Doughnuts, fried pickles, my family, scary movies and friends are some of the things that make me happy. I am the happiest when I am surrounded by these things because they give me joy and melt my heart. Figuring out what makes you happy is important. Pleasing others or doing something that doesn't truly make you happy is not right. Make this be the year of fulfilling your happiness. Take the time to figure out what makes you happy because it will help you in the long run.

3. Do what makes you happy. 

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Throughout the years, I've learned that doing what makes you happy is the key to a joyous life. People try and dictate other people's lives by giving opinions and suggestions to someone and most people listen to these suggestions. You cannot let someone dictate your life. Doing the things that make you happy is how you can achieve dictating and controlling your life & happiness. Happiness is sacred and no one should be able to control someone else's.

With the start of a fresh year, many people try to figure out their new year resolutions, but many people overlook an element that is so important and simplistic—happiness. Take time for yourself this year. If you need to do more activities alone, do them. If you need "alone time", take as much as you need. Preserve yourself and your happiness because once you lose your happiness, it is not easy to gain back.

Let this be the year that you focus on yourself and your life. Channel in on what's best for you and how you can remain a peaceful person throughout this year.

Smile more and love hard. Never forget that you have a new day, every day to reach your full potential and your full potential to be happy. Think about it? That's what everyone wants, just to be happy.