Hard to believe in just a few months it'll be 2016. I still remember coming up with my New Year's resolutions for 2015 and wondering if I actually came close to actually reaching any of them. Does anyone ever stick to their New Year's resolutions all year long?
Basically, my main New Year's resolution for 2015 was to be happier. And as far as resolutions and goals go, I think this is one that everyone should have for themselves. It's so easy these days to get caught up in constantly working hard, be it at school or at work, and not taking the time to check in with yourself and see how you're really doing. Are you really happy? Are you where you want to be? Do you enjoy your life as it is right now? Is there something you should be changing? And if it's something you can't change, maybe it's something you can learn to accept and maybe even love.
It's something I've been thinking about a lot more often lately. Without trying to sound too cliche or corny, we really do only have one life to live. What's the point of wasting it doing things we're not truly happy doing? One thing that scares the hell out of me is the thought of looking back at my life and regretting missed chances or feeling as though my life wasn't all it could have been. It really saddens me when I see people living for others; be it to meet their parents expectations, or for the approval of others, or giving up their on their dreams because others tell them it's not possible, realistic or a good idea.
I used to be one of those people. Always scared, thinking "oh but what will my parents think?" and maybe to an extent, I still do think this way sometimes. But I'm no longer basing my life choices and my happiness on what they expect from me. Maybe they'll be disappointed for a while but I would choose that a million times over living a life of future disappointment because I didn't follow my own dreams. Be it for a career, a relationship, a big purchase or big life decision.
Bottom line is, every once in a while, we need to check in with ourselves. Am I happy where I am? Is there anything I can do to be happier? Because in the end, only we have the power to change our situation and be happier. I've started doing little things just to reduce stress and increase happiness in my every day life. Make time for things you enjoy. Give yourself mental health days. Be kind to yourself. Laugh more; watch a funny movie, spend time with friends. Let go of the past. Forgive people. Don't make major life decisions based on other people's expectations or wants from you. Aim on making yourself happy and the rest will follow.
That's a great post! ♥
ReplyDeleteI always worry what others think of my decision and how it affects them - which I would say is good to some extent. But veryone should still make themselves their first priority. If you want to do it because it makes you happy? Do it. It's your life. As long as you are not hurting someone along the way it's nobody's business.
In the end it really doesn't matter what other people think of you and your decisions as long as you are happy. It's hard - I struggle doing it myself but I'm working on it. ;-)
I agree :) It's not easy at all, but it's something I'm working on too!
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