As the year comes to an end, it is another chance for people to start fresh. Leave all of the negativity of the past 365 days as just a distant memory. Every year, instead of making one big change that won’t stick, I try my best to make a few smaller changes that will make every day a little better, and my life a little brighter. This year, I have done just that.

One of my resolutions for 2017 is to not let the little things ruin my day. I let myself get so stuck on things that won’t matter in a week, that I can’t see past them. I can’t manage to put the little things aside, and focus on the big picture.

Another one of my bad habits I want to get rid of in this new year is to let go of grudges. I am so bad at letting go and moving on. I hold on to the bad things, can’t see the good ones, and lose sight of what is really important. Grudges and the negativity that they carry cloud my judgement. Letting go of the residual anger is something that would make each day better.

I also vow, this year, to stay concentrated on the people that matter to me. I won’t let the opinions of people that aren’t important to my life to have an effect on me. This one might be the hardest, but most important.

2016 brought me happiness and a lot of good. I am thankful for my supportive family, my loving fiancé, and my beautiful friends; old and new. ‘

2017 will bring new changes and challenges, but with my resolutions in mind, I will stay focused, clear headed, and optimistic for the next 365 days.