I never make New Year’s Resolutions, can never be bothered. Any changes to lifestyle and well being can be made at any time of the year. Saying that though, I thought I’d share my little pearls of wisdom that I either learnt this year, or used to help me get through trying times this year. If there’s one thing I see on social media, it is people moaning and whinging. I think we could all do with looking a little more after ourselves, and taking it step by step to becoming happier. Let 2016 actually be a happy year!
Cut Out Toxic Friends
The ones that make you feel bad. The ones you never hear from unless they need your help. Sometimes we hold onto friendships for old times sake, but when people change so much over the years sometimes its better to just admit to ourselves those who we were close to two years ago, maybe not so much anymore. And when you stop making effort with those who don’t spare a second for you, you have the time to make the effort with those that do.
Adopt Healthy Habits
I have finally joined the gym for the first time in my life, and I intend to keep it up. (Although the trainers at my gym suggest working towards going from my current two days a week to every day. How about no. Gotta still have lazy, chocolate eating days. For my emotional well being). You don’t need to be one of those super healthy freaks (erm no offence super healthy people…) who never have a binge eating day, but it’s good to cut out some of the bad food, eat more of the good stuff and get a bit more active to feel more alert, and better about yourself!
Appreciate your Favourite Qualities
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt this year, it’s to recognise what I like about myself, and appreciate my good points without having to rely on others to tell me so (on bad days you have to be the one to tell yourself how awesome you are!). We rely too much on approval and verification from others, but confidence can only come from knowing your own worth, and everybody is worthwhile!
Get Out of the House More
Not just travelling (but yes, always travel as much as possible), but also just going outside for a walk, or a coffee, or to see a friend. I always feel really lousy when I’ve spent too long cooped up indoors (I say this at the end of a day I’ve spent sleeping off a hangover and not venturing outside once). The world is a big one, but even the smallest adventure can make you feel good about life.
Never Stop Learning
Short story: I looked at my Facebook Year in Review, and like last year it started off well, showing my life to be an interesting one, but then just showed the most random photos (including one of a melted chocolate heart. 2015 you crazy time). But it did show my Spanish qualification and my dissertation, and I realised how much I have achieved this year in regards to my brain. Not only my CEFR Level A2 in Spanish, but my Bachelors degree, my TEFL certificate, my photography diploma, and most recently a certificate in understanding Human Rights from Amnesty International. I seem to have gotten into online learning this year… But I do believe the mind should never stop exploring. So read, take up hobbies, enroll on courses, anything to help you learn how interesting the world is! The more you accomplish the more you’ll realise that yes, you’re pretty damn smart.
Always Try New Things
I for one hate being in my comfort zone too much. But I know people who have permanent residency there. The best memories don’t come from sticking to what you know – they come from biting the bullet, letting go of your fears, and searching for new adventures. So whether it’s a strange new delicacy in a foreign land, or a dance class you think you’d be terrible at, anything that is easy to say no to, but you wonder “what if it did happen”…do it! I always like to say better to know than to wonder what if.
Reduce Social Media Usage
Those 30 blurry photos from a night out you just HAVE to upload for your 400 facebook friends to see what a crazy party animal you are? Nah, we don’t need to check in everywhere we go, or have a photo of us with our food, or document our evening on Snapchat. Truth is, most people won’t miss those photos, and deep down we know that. I don’t advocate refusing to use social media, I know I’m on it too much, but it’s a great way to stay in contact with people. But if we use it less we care less about likes and trying to show the world too much insight into our lives. Rather then checking in or taking selfies we actually enjoy the time we spend with others, and that is what’s important!
So I hope 2016 brings you all many joys, sweet memories and adventure! I have very different plans for my 2016 than my 2015, but I think I’m more excited for life than ever!
Inside a Mind 