The holiday season is officially over and the new year is started off with a "bang". When the clock strikes 12:00 am, January 1st, we cheer for our resolutions and good karma with champagne. Some dislike the idea of new year resolutions and others embrace it, but you have to admit that the new year really feels like a fresh start. Here is what I plan to do to start the new year off on the right foot.

Clean my space

What is better than starting the new year with a fresh cleaning? I plan to do a deep cleaning of my apartment, which includes a dreaded dog bath. I will also schedule 30 minutes a day to declutter my living space, in hopes of making cleaning a little less of a chore.

Study at the library

Studying in my apartment is so great! I'm in my pajamas, I've got some chips at my side, my dog begs for my attention, the new season of my favorite show just came out on Netflix...
Okay, maybe it's a bit distracting to study from home. It may be a bit out of my way to travel to the library to study, but I will be ten times more productive, and that's what counts.

Keep a spending diary

Yep, I have D.M.P. (Disappearing Money Problem). I get a sum of money and by the end of the week, it's gone! Obviously, I need to hold myself more accountable, but I can never seem to remember what exactly I've spent my money on! By having a diary and keeping track of everything I buy, I can assess what needs to be cut out of my budget.

Compliment others

This one may seem strange, but I find myself a bit more reclusive at stressful times, though I try to be an extrovert. I tried an experiment for a week in which my goal was to compliment at least one person a day, and I ended the week feeling satisfied. The end of my 2017 left me with realizations that, even if others do bad by me, I can still do good and have a positive outlook. Complimenting others on their personality or appearance can result in physical signs of happiness by the receiving party. As for me, being a positive influence to others brightens my mood. After all, you should treat others the way you want to be treated.

New Year's resolutions are known for being said and never being fulfilled. Even if you find yourself at the end of the year and realize you haven't been true to your resolution, know it is never too late to start healthy habits. I hope you have a pleasant and fulfilling New Year!