The New Year can be one of the most exciting moments of the year. For many it brings feelings of renewal and hope. There is a sense of optimism that hangs in the air. People are out dancing, drinking, singing, and everything sparkles. It’s time to celebrate!

The ambiance in the air brings out something in people that you rarely see during the rest of the year. It is the final climax for the holiday season. For some the New Year holds opportunity – hence why so many people set resolutions. For others it’s a sigh of relief; finally the year is over, and if it hasn’t been the best, well there’s hope that with the New Year will bring better things.

But what runs through your mind as the ball sinks lower and lower, as you hear the crowds chanting “5,4,3,2,1! Happy NEW YEAR!”

Are you thinking about that new years kiss? About all of the possibilities that comes with the New Year? About loved ones that aren’t there to ring in the year with you? Or maybe about when everyone will shut up about their ‘resolutions’.

Every knows a lot can happen in a year, heck everything can change in a single day, but as you prepare for the New Year there are a few things you should bear in mind.

1. No you don’t need that New Year’s kiss. For most people it’s symbolic for a passage of time spent together. For some it’s a chance to make a move on that certain, special someone, but it’s become a tradition and traditions were made to be broken.
2. Some may go all out for New Years. With that always comes the expectation of a magical, transformative evening. Well, guess what? It’s okay to stay in curled up with a glass of campaign watching the ball drop. Or heck, call it an evening and catch up on some ZzZ’s. Not every New Years Eve is magical and that’s okay.
3. It’s great to set goals for yourself – New Years resolutions are no exception. However, that said, most New Years resolutions that are made ultimately end up being broken. Instead of placing so much emphasis on specific goals, make more general resolutions – like making more time for yourself, spending more time on things that make you happy, or just aim to have a better year. You don’t even have to make them! Ideally, it’s better to constantly set small goals for yourself throughout the year.
4. Don’t place so much stress on having this unattainable “perfect” evening. Some of these expectations we place on New Years are ridiculous. Instead, just celebrate the fact that you’ve made it another year – even if it’s been the worst year ever. You may feel older, you may feel pessimistic, but you’ve made it – so embrace it.

So enjoy your New Years Eve, stay safe and make 2017 your year.