Every year, we all try to come up with the best New Year’s resolutions that we swear we’ll stick to. But by the end of January, we haven’t stuck to any of them. I wanted to try to list some that weren’t your typical resolutions—ones that you have a much better chance at following through with. Here are just a few.
1. Do whatever makes you happy.
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. We all have the potential to do whatever we put our minds to; especially if it is something we are passionate about. You have the power to determine your path in life; you are the navigator, and the world is your compass.
2. Take time for yourself.
We’re all guilty of constantly trying to please others—but sometimes we need to stop and think what is best for us. Time alone with your thoughts can help you discover who you are, and what changes you’d like to make in your life. Doing this can even make you feel more confident and more comfortable in your own skin. While doing things for others and being surrounded by people is important, “me” time is just as important.
3. Try new things--no matter how big or small.
2016 was the year that I seriously contemplated getting a tattoo. I never had thoughts about getting one, but suddenly I really wanted to. For a few months, I couldn’t stop thinking about it and tried my best to decide exactly what I wanted. Finally, I went and got one. It felt amazing trying something so unfamiliar to me, but at the same time I was terrified because I knew it would be on my skin for the rest of my life. But sometimes you can’t let fear hold you back; you have to take that chance and run with it.
4. Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.
There is no better feeling than being in the company of people who accept you for who you are and fully support you. It’s okay to cut the ones who don’t out of your life. You deserve to have people in your life who allow you to be your truest self, especially because they’re most likely to stick around for life.
5. Put your best foot forward in all that you do.
Working hard is something to be proud of. Succeeding is something to be proud of. Even if you think you can’t do something, put your best effort into it anyway—you may be surprised with the results. In my junior year of college, I had an extremely tough math class. I’ve never been good at math, and I didn’t think I’d even get close to passing the class. But the other part of me knew if I at least put effort into it, the results might pay off. I worked tirelessly in that class, and I ended up getting a B, which made me ecstatic. One thing my parents always told me is that if I got a low grade, or even failed a class, it didn’t matter as much if I actually tried and made an effort. Always use your best abilities to conquer a tough battle—you have the fight in you; don’t let it go to waste.
