All corny new year’s resolutions aside, with the new year on its way it’s time to start thinking about changes to implement to enhance your quality of life. The new year of 2018 can serve as a time when you can start over, especially for people who have had an especially rough year (and maybe just got their final grades back too). It can be a relief to begin again, but it can also be daunting. Now is the time to start really reflecting on where you are in every sense. Here are some things that everyone should start doing in 2018:
1. Stop worrying about what others think about you
There’s a time in your life when you just have to understand that the only person whose opinion about you matters is yours. Don’t change yourself, physically or mentally to appease others, as that will create emotional turmoil in the long run. Be unapologetically you and everything will fall into place. Just remember to do things for the appeasement of yourself, not other people.
2. Set goals for yourself and stick to them
I’m not telling you to come up with 10,000 new year’s resolutions that you’re going to follow for a week (or two if you’re determined), but setting achievable goals is a step into making you feel more fulfilled. Make sure that you set goals that will improve your quality of life. Want to lead a healthier lifestyle? Make money? Get better grades? Make it happen, and it will feel so good to check them off the list.
3. Focus on school
Let’s face it: being a student is probably one of the most important things you’re doing right now, so make sure you give it your all. A new semester gives you a chance to start fresh: new content, professors, classmates, etc., and it also gives you a chance to work on your GPA. This may sound harsh, but you and/or your parents are not paying thousands of dollars for you to not care. One thing you can start with at the beginning of 2018 (or slightly before) is applying for summer internships. Not only are they great experience, but they look terrific on your resume. Keep your eyes on the prize and don’t let things get in your way.
4. Remove toxins from your life
Whether it’s friends, boyfriends or carbonated drinks, don’t let toxins ruin your year before it even starts. Do not, and I repeat, DO NOT bring toxic people with you into 2018. If they’re not there for you and don’t care about your well being or genuinely want the best for you, then leave them in 2017. It’s for the best. You think the environment you’re in is toxic? Maybe it’s a good time to move or think about transferring to a different school. Big decisions like these can be daunting, but they need to happen to ensure your happiness.
5. Focus on YOU
Over winter break is a great time to get your mental health together. Take this time to really get to know yourself, whether it’s through journaling, meditation or even just analyzing your sad tweets. Don’t be afraid to spend some time alone to really reflect and perform self help if needed. You want to be the best version of yourself when you get back to school and in 2018 in general. Get the help you need whether it’s from yourself, a loved one or even a therapist. It’s all about you and your well-being right now.
A final word of advice? Truly live your best life and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Go into 2018 with a positive outlook and good things will come.