For many, New Year's resolutions can backfire when the goals we set to achieve turn out to be far-fetched and unrealistic, resulting in frustration, stress, and disappointment. This year, take simple steps that will cleanse your mind of stress and help you focus on improving your personal well-being.

At times, life may seem overwhelming and the pressure to improve every aspect of your life can feel never-ending. Although not every goal in life may be necessarily achieved, there are certainly ways to improve your state of mind and mental health without jumping through hoops.

Instead of pushing yourself to make sudden or major changes in your life, ease into a new year with simple but effective steps that will guarantee a less stressful and more productive you.

In my life, these six things have proven to be successful in eliminating stress as well as improving productivity and mental well-being.

1. Make time for YOU

Whether this may include watching a movie, taking a bath, or reading a book, it is crucial to designate time for yourself during a given day. It is more than okay to put yourself first every once in a while and listen to your body and mind when you feel the need for relaxation. This may also include creating a more comforting place in your home to escape to after a long day. There will always be time to socialize and go out with friends, so don't feel like you are missing out; taking a night off is vital in maintaining a healthy you and is guaranteed to relieve stress.

2. Himalayan Salt Lamp

Himalayan salt lamps are all the buzz right now and have proven to purify the air while improving mood and energy levels. The overall chemistry of the lamp works in such a way that it absorbs water, air particles, and positive ions. When the salt from the lamp is heated, it then releases clean water vapor into the air while eliminating negative ions. Some of the many benefits of a himalayan salt lamp include removing odors from the air, reducing allergy symptoms, increasing energy levels, and improving sleep, mood, and concentration. A Himalayan salt lamp could be just the thing you need to add some clarity to your life.

3. Essential Oil Diffuser

Diffusers are perfect for creating a relaxing, yet subtle scent throughout the air. With drops of essential oils, air diffusion delivers aromatherapy throughout your own home. Similar to the benefits of a Himalayan salt lamp, many claim essential oil diffusers improve relaxation and sleep, elevate moods, ward off illnesses and pain, increase cognitive brain function, and relieve inflammation and congestion in airways.

4. Candles

Candles are another way to create a relaxing, soothing environment in your home. In my experience, there is nothing better than coming home to a clean room and lighting a few candles to unwind. Whatever your favorite scent may be, candles are bound to soothe your mind and relax your soul after a busy day. In other words, create your own meditation studio by creating a peaceful, candle-lit setting.

5. Skin Care Set

Go out and buy a new skin care set to help you feel rejuvenated and healthy. Taking care of your skin is a simple way to feel more vibrant and lively in your everyday life. For me, skin care has become a morning and nightly ritual that always leaves me feeling cleansed and purified. A simple task such as removing your makeup and taking care of your skin with cleansers and moisturizers can help to maintain a sense of order and productivity. While it is hard to control everything in life, it is important to recognize the simple things you can do daily to improve your well-being.

6. Make A List

With the daily stresses of life, it is often difficult to stay organized and focused on the tasks that lie in front of you. Consider purchasing an every-day planner to help you organize everyday tasks and stay present. This will help in developing time-management skills and allow you to conquer busy days with ease. Making lists and crossing assignments out throughout the day creates a feeling of control and productivity.