Where We Live: Be the best version of you

Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one …

Happy New Year!

The time to ring in 2018 is right around the corner.

A good many of us will keep with the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions.

As we all know, it isn’t always easy to challenge ourselves to the fullest.

Which is why I applaud those who aspire to achieve their goals.

Of course, it’s one thing to make a resolution and actually be able to stick to it.

But making such a resolution doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to invent a new “you.”

Instead, focus on being the best version of yourself that you possibly can.

When angry, channel that negative energy into something positive.

If unsure, do your due diligence to learn what you don’t already know.

During uncertainty, adapt to change, no matter how difficult the transition may appear.

Should you happen to come across someone less fortunate, be thankful for what you have.

Never take for granted your health, because it may eventually fail you.

When something gets you down, get over it, because sulking can only bog you down.

Don’t sweat the small stuff, because at the end of the day, it probably isn’t worth dwelling on.

Learn to appreciate the simpler things in life, as they are all around us in some form or another.

Try to have a positive outlook, because otherwise, the world can appear to be rather bleak.

Be productive, because the alternative is to do nothing, which amounts to exactly that.

Do something positive, because the actions you take now will ultimately be reflected in the legacy you leave behind.

Most importantly, be grateful for the important people in your life, because they won’t always be here.

Cherish them through and through, and let them know how much they mean to you.

Because once they’re gone, you will undoubtedly feel a huge void in your life that can never be completely filled.

If there’s anything I’ve learned over time, it’s that life can change at the flip of a coin.

Just when you think you know all the answers, life steps in and alters the questions.

That’s why it’s important to stay grounded, and surround yourself with a solid support system.

Learn to seize the moment, love and respect others, and most importantly, love yourself for the person you are.

After all, the more you laugh, the more the world laughs with you.

I’d like to take this moment to wish all of you a happy, healthy new year.

May all your dreams come true.