This past year, I was drowning. Drowning in the fact I had no idea what I'd wanted, no idea what I was good at, no idea what I was passionate about, and no idea what the hell I was doing. And I thought that I was failing.

When you imagine living your life to the fullest, you imagine being happy.

Happiness.

Something we all want, and can't always seem to find...right?

Fortunately, we have the choice to be happy. It is our personal choice and typically the only thing holding us back is ourselves. Unfortunately, it can be extremely hard to let go of negativity.

What I mean by this, is that we often let our brains be wrapped around negative thoughts. "They probably want someone better for that job," or "Yeah I could do that but.."

The reality is that there is always someone that is going to be better than you. No matter what you're pursuing. But instead of letting that discourage you, push forward. Strive to learn more, and become the best that YOU can be. If you're passionate about it, run with it.

There will always be people in your life that might not support your visions or goals. Keep in mind that this is your life. When you look back 20 years from now, are you going to wish you went and pursued it? Probably. So why are you letting one person out of 7 billion hold you back?

I promise you that you don't need validation from every single one of your friends before you do something bold.

Surround yourself with people that love and support you for who you are. People that motivate you. People that empower you. THOSE are who you need by your side. They will not only push you to move mountains, but be there every step of the way right there beside you.

We also expect ourselves to achieve unattainable standards.

What I mean by this, is that sometimes, you won't win.

You won't get an A in a class or on an exam. Sometimes you might even fail a class. You might not do a great job on something for work. You might not have a picture perfect relationship. You might not have a bikini body in all four seasons. You might want to eat a greasy slice of cheese pizza. You might have spent money on something you shouldn't have.

There is nothing wrong with any of those things. Because you learn.

Take pride in who you are. Take pride in your values. Take pride in your failures. Take pride in your success. Take pride in your body.

Because there is no one else in the entire world, that is you.

Because everything you have been through leading up to this point, made you who you are.

It's time to stop degrading yourself, and understand that you are worthy and capable of incredible things.

Be fearless. Be authentic. Be bold. And stop letting the negativity around you win.