Every year on social media, I always see people posting their “New Year, New Me” statuses about changing themselves and becoming a different person. I understand their good willed intentions for the new year, but you don’t have to change yourself to change your life. Some people may just have resolutions for the new year that they hope to accomplish. Other people want to totally transform themselves into a completely different person. If that change involves changing your hairstyle or your wardrobe without changing YOU, then go right ahead. While some are changing their physique, other people may want to switch their atmosphere by moving to another city, state, or even country. Moving to an entirely different environment is definitely a big change, but if that’s what you want, GO FOR IT.

If 2016 was a bad year for you, then forget about it. It’s in the past now, move on and learn from the bad to improve yourself in the future. Start the year off fresh, free from all that toxic energy. Remove the people who aren’t helping you better yourself. If those people aren’t supporting you, then they aren’t really there for you. You don’t need anymore of that negativity, you need more positivity to reach your goals in the new year and in life. If part of starting fresh is changing up your look, then do it. People may think you’ve changed, but you’re still humble, kind, and true to yourself. Don’t let anyone kill your vibe!

Sometimes even your so-called “friends” or boyfriend/girlfriend may be this negative energy in your life. Sorry to tell you this, but they've got to go. It will be hard to let them go since you’ve gotten close to them, but once you do it will get easier everyday. Leave them back in 2016, back in the past where they belong. If they aren’t standing by your side as you go into the new year, then say goodbye to that non-supportive person. Remember that time doesn’t tell you whether the friendship is true, only the person’s actions can tell you that. Actions will always speak louder than words in every relationship.

In this new year, I ask you to look at the bright side and don’t surround yourself with the darkness. People will come and go into your life, but you will be the one to choose whether they add to your support system or if they bring you down with them. Letting go of people is never easy, but it will definitely be worth it towards reaching your goals in life. Walk into 2017 with your head held high with pride that you’ve made it to another year despite the difficulties faced in the previous year. Place a smile on that face that says “Watch out, I’m becoming a better ME and I’m not afraid to get rid of bad people in my life.” Have pride, but always remember to stay true to yourself because you are your biggest investment in your life.