Most of us make goals and resolutions going into the new year, it’s a tradition, and a really great one. Everyone looks at the new year as a fresh start, and why shouldn’t you? At the end of the day, resolutions are the result of us wanting to be the best versions of ourselves.

It’s nothing groundbreaking, but my thoughts have lead me to these two words: strong and genuine. I truly believes these qualities are the key to pushing our potential.

The thing about giving advice like this is actually taking it upon myself to heed my own advice. So this is my promise to you that I’m following these same steps to be a better me this year. In fact I’ve already followed step one and the result? My blog post Finding Freya is being published in the New England Aquarium’s magazine!

So trust me, these tips are personalized and well thought out. Try them out and you’ll feel like you’re taking the right steps to make 2018 your best year yet.

1. It’s time to put yourself out there, stop hesitating, take that risk. Doesn’t go your way? Who cares! People respect when someone is making an effort. Don’t be afraid of rejection, it is a huge part of life. Show your grace and handle it well if things go this way. But don’t forget to think of the positive pay out that can be a result of putting yourself out there.

2. Put down the skittles and step away from the bed, it’s time to stop bingeing. We all do it when we have a bad day. We justify our naps, our food comas, and Netflix rendezvouses. I’m not saying don’t treat yo self, which you definitely should, it’s just time that we limit these distractions. You’ll be amazed at the energy you have when you actually skip the nap and the extra slice of pizza. Not to mention all the things you get done when you’re not curled up in bed with the Office theme song blaring from your computer speakers.

3. Hone in on your morning and night routines. A lot of us have solid beauty routines developed by now, but throw a little something extra in the mix. Maybe in the morning block out time to sit and enjoy your coffee, maybe with a book or checking some emails. In the evening, incorporate some deep breathing and light stretching before bed. Add an extra step to your routine that’ll give you time to show yourself some love and extra care every morning and night. The best version of yourself takes care of YOU first.

4. Change the way you chat. Call your family and friends when you want to catch up, don’t just shoot them a text. Send handwritten cards to say happy birthday or to congratulate your BFF on a new job, don’t just post about it on social media. You’ll be surprised to find how much more personal you’ll keep your friendships if you take these simple extra steps.