Here we go….New Years Eve…get ready for everyone to shout out (and especially post on social media) “New Year, New Me!” Well…yes, sure, a new year brings new opportunities and memories, but do you really need to change everything about yourself? It’s not a new you. It’s a better version of you! We look back of the past 365 days and see where we can improve…what we should maintain…how we can better ourselves. What traits and morals should we continue to follow? What works? What habits must you give up to better you? Relationships to mend? What makes you happy?

Remove anyone that does not have a positive influence in your life. They don’t deserve your time. Don’t waste your time on the negative ones. By doing that, you are pushing away the ones that you should be surrounding yourself with. Create a close knit, strong, positive group of friends. Choose wisely, think about it. Are they really doing to push me to improve? Are they going to support me? Be there for me?

Aim to grow from the base of the person you already are into something even greater! Be true to yourself. Never forget who you truly are.

Use your heart in ways greater than worrying about people who don’t matter. Life is too short. Love with all of your heart, put your passion into what you love also. Making a difference.

Spend more time doing things YOU enjoy. Hiking, traveling, road trips, festivals, biking, writing, whatever it is! Maybe you want to try a new restaurant every other week. Maybe you want to try and beat your best hiking time or mile time. Treat yourself! Go to a spa once every month or get your hair done every 6 weeks. What luxury sounds the best for you? If you’re the type of person that feels guilty for doing something for yourself or think that you could be something “productive”—we are the same way. But we have to remind ourselves that we deserve it!

If only we earned a nickle each time we heard, “I’m going to start eating healthier and going to the gym more.” Not trying to discredit that goal. In fact, we are strong advocates for taking care of our health and being proactive but to be a better version of you, why not start within! Most people are concerned with how they look on the outside more than the inside. Within yourself is where you will find what truly makes you happy. It’s almost an instinctual feeling. What makes you improve your behavior? Your happiness? Your relationships with a friend, parent, with your child? If we lack a strong self-foundation then it’ll be hard to build up. Self care: mind, body, soul. Whatever is good for the soul – do that! You are in control of your happiness!