What a year 2016 was! SO MUCH has happened then and a lot to reflect upon. Here’s a quick recap:

• Nicaragua trip with GIVE
• College Graduation
• Sister’s Wedding
• Dad’s visit to LA
• New job
• the list goes on and on…

In retrogress, this rather eventful year has paved the way to so many opportunities. Just like any other year, it had its ups and downs. What resonated with me the most, however, were all of the challenges and lessons I learned – all of which I am grateful for.

Now that we’ve finally welcomed 2017, what’s next? I’m pretty elated for this blank canvas – ready to painted, scribbled, doodled on. While this whole “new year, new me” mantra is most certainly not something I emphasize upon, I do strive to become a better version of myself every single day, and I’m sure most of you do too. Each day forward is a work in progress, and January 1st is always a concrete start to pursuing and executing everything you’ve always wanted to.

Here are some tips on resolutions and how to make this year your best one yet!

Choose ONE resolution (two max!)

We sometimes set ourselves up for failure when we aim high for numerous resolutions. Quality > Quantity. I try to embed this in my everyday routine especially since we’d much rather focus our energies on ONE goal rather than doing a mediocre job at the rest. It is not only less overwhelming, but it is also much more fulfilling this way knowing we worked to the best of our potential once we hit that goal.

Have a Support System

We always achieve more when we seek help from the people around us. For instance, when I set up a hiking date, I’m less likely to bail on that since someone else’s time is involved. Having your friends and family by your side also creates a balance with diverse ideas. They can share their insights on certain projects and help switch up your routine, which in turn becomes rewarding.

Make SMART Goals

Anyone can say, “I want to save money,” but it’s not specific or measurable. Obtaining Specific Measurable Attainable, Realistic, and Timely (SMART) goals not only pave the way for success, but you become more determined as you work through baby steps. Having a specific goal also means you’re more likely to fulfill them since you’d have the logistics written down, making it easier to work towards. By becoming more specific, you’ll also be less hindered by obstacles that stand in your way.

Accept the Process of Change

Change does not come easy; in fact, it takes a while to break our habits, so tell yourself it is OKAY if your resolutions take a while to accomplish.  Real change is hard, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Self-doubt/comparison leaves no room for self-love and progress. We have to accept that the habits we currently have may have taken YEARS to develop, so don’t expect to break them within a few weeks or so. Be easy on yourself and accept change on YOUR own timeline.

Journal, Journal, Journal!

I’m a grandiose fan of journaling. Like I’ve mentioned before in previous posts, journaling is my absolute safe haven. I have so many different journals catered to different things. One of my goals this year, with the help of my coworker’s insights, is to jot down something I’m grateful for… EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Amidst our busy work grinds, we tend to overlook life’s simple elegance and beauty that we sometimes fail to recognize our own gratitude. Jotting down something gratifying each day would not only shift your perspective from looking at the glass half empty to half full, but it would also allow you to be more in tune with yourself.

Now with this whole year ahead of us, we ultimately have control over our lives. Whether it’s a fitness or behavioral goal, we CAN attain them. The key is not only to be more in sync with yourself, but to also OWN your mental health status, radiate positivity, and be kind to yourself. No journey is perfect. Learn to embrace the successes but also the failures. These are all learning experiences that will challenge our perspectives and shape our development. On the days you fail, use that as a re-strategizing lesson, and just keep going!

PS – I have created a goal sheet to help you reach your goals. Subscribe below and let me know how it goes!♥