Another year has gone by and we have entered 2019. No matter how cliche it sounds, a new year means a new me, so it’s time to say goodbye to those old habits and start fresh. Every year I tell myself to follow through with my New Year’s resolutions and have almost always failed. However, this year I am determined to persevere and attempt to complete some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions.

One resolution is to exercise more. I have come to love exercising and I get such a rush after a good workout. Studies have also shown that exercise helps you live longer, boost your metabolism and bring down stress levels and anxiety. It can seem scary at first, so try to find a workout buddy to keep you motivated and to make it more comfortable. You also don’t necessarily need to go to a gym.

In a study published by the American Journal of Health Promotion, researchers found that even small bursts of exercise like doing jumping jacks while watching TV or taking the stairs instead of the elevator are the same as long workout sessions at the gym, as long as you’re moving for at least 30 minutes a day. I have already seen and experienced results from exercising. I feel healthier and happier and I want to continue working out throughout the year.

Another resolution is to get more sleep. As a college student, it is hard to fit adequate time for sleep in my incredibly busy schedule. The amount of all-nighters and late nights I spent were countless; however, I still acknowledge that getting sleep is crucial for the health of your mind and body.

Keeping this in mind, I tried to sleep at least eight hours every night during winter break and I began to notice how energetic and focused I felt. I know for many people it may be difficult to fall asleep and get a healthy amount every night. The bright and blue light from cell phones can disrupt the natural melatonin production in our brains, convincing our minds that it is daytime. It can help to step away from any electronics 30 minutes prior to going to bed to properly prepare your body for relaxation.

My last, and I believe the most important, resolution is to take better care of my mental health. Last year, I noticed I would focus too much on my school work and my friends, losing myself in the process. Little did I realize at the time that I wouldn’t properly take care of others if I didn’t prioritize myself first.

I decided that 2019 would be the year where my own well-being would become my number one responsibility. On the internet, there are many tips and tactics on self-care like giving yourself lush baths, drinking lemon water or making face masks. But in the end, no spa treatment will heal the mind.

I realized that to feel empowered and comfortable with who I am, I first had to focus on my environment. With that came cutting out the toxic aspects of my life, whether that meant people and activities. Even though it is an overused phrase, I am wholeheartedly devoted to surrounding myself with “good vibes only.”

The new year is perfect to try new things and to work on yourself. There’s always room for improvement so take this new year as an opportunity to become a better you. Let’s make this year the best year yet.