First off, I’d like to say that I hope everyone had a safe and fun New Years! 2017 is a chapter that can finally be closed and put behind us.

New Year's is the time that everyone creates their resolutions and desperately tries to stay with them. So I wanted to start this New Year's with some inspirational quotes to keep that fire going!

1. "There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind," by C.S. Lewis

If your 2017 was difficult, just know that those are just memories left behind and you have a chance to look forward to even better things. Whenever a door closes, a new (and much better one) opens. Just give it some time.

2. “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop,” by Confucius

Setting big goals can be really daunting and super frustrating if you aren’t seeing the results instantaneously. But just remember that it's not a race. You don't have to achieve everything in a set time limit. Give yourself time to adapt and change. Good things come to those who wait (and are consistent!)

3. “And suddenly you know — it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings,” by Meister Eckhart

The new year always has this breath of fresh air surrounding it. Take advantage of it and let it consume you. Let it empower you to do what you’ve always wanted to do. Let it give you that extra push you need.

4. “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today,” by Will Rogers

I know that we all stress and worry about things more often than not, but don’t ruin a new day with old problems that you have no control over. Preserve your energy and focus on how you can enjoy today. Learn to start every day like it’s brand new. There's no point in carrying around old baggage when you can just unpack it.

5. “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated,” by Maya Angelou

Sometimes we need to get knocked down just to see if we can get back up. That's a true test of character. The bad times are blessings in disguise because they make us realize just how strong we are and what's truly important to us.

And one last thing: 2018 is waiting to be written, so write your best story the way you want too.