As the new year rolls around and 2016 creeps its way into our calendars, the majority of our population makes goals for themselves that we like to refer to as "New Year's resolutions." Like the unoriginal generation that we have come to know and love, most of these resolutions are the same. Eat healthy, go to the gym every day, succeed in your career, get at least a 3.6 in school--the list could go on for miles.
What happened to real, genuine, reachable resolutions that take little effort, but make all the difference in the world? These are the things that we don't really think about, but if we paid attention to these small little changes, then we could make a complete 360 in this crazy adventure that we call our lives. Here are some resolutions worth considering.
1. Give one compliment per day to a random stranger.
This may seem like a stupid and simple task, but there's nothing better than knowing that you made someone's day just a little bit better. Telling someone that you like their shoes or even shouting "Go Sox!" to someone wearing a Red Sox Jersey on the street will make someone's day a little bit brighter and, ultimately, make your day a little bit better, too.
2. Delete social media.
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram seem to have become everything that anyone talks about now. We've become a generation that's so hung up on likes and follows that we forget there is a whole universe right in front of us worth exploring. Deleting social media will give you a chance to see the world as it should be.
3. Focus on self love rather than self loathing.
With the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show becoming one of the most viewed television events every year, there has been a lot of talk about how both women and men see themselves. So, the next time that you look in the mirror and think: "I look so fat in this dress," or, "I wish that I didn't have so much acne," try to switch it up and think about the things that you love about yourself. Think about how you love the way that your hair looks, or how great your butt looks in those jeans! Try to be positive, because that positive thoughts can translate into confidence!
4. Play with your dog more often.
This may seem silly, but dogs are cute and playful. I've never heard anyone say, "Wow, I played with my dog the other day and it was awful, I never want to do it again." Having a companion and someone to play with can flip your whole day around. Dogs are a great way to blow off some steam and become happier!
5. Be a better version of yourself.
In everything you do this year, think to yourself: "How can I be a better person today?" Whether that means doing something at work, studying longer for school, or just being kind, do something every day so that, when you look back on the year before 2017 rolls around, you'll be able to say that you were the best version of yourself that you could possibly be.
Each new year brings new challenges, opportunities, and chances to make this the best year of your life. So take advantage of the life that you lead and have a happy, blessed new year and a wonderful 2016!