Students are on winter break. Christmas is only two days away. The end of the year is almost here! It seems like just the other day we started 2021, but here we are, a week away from turning over the calendar and starting off 2022. 

A new year brings new opportunities, new growths, new challenges and new friends. There will be uncertainties, there will be changes, and now is the time to start your new year off right. 

Below, we share some things that you can be doing to start your 2022 off on a positive note!

Reflect

One thing that is good for everyone to do once a new year starts is to reflect on the previous year. What were some things that went well in your life in 2021? What are some things that didn’t go as well? Looking back on what happened the year before can help you start thinking about how you want to change your life going forward. 

Set new goals

With a new year comes new year resolutions. Many people use the new year as a time to create new goals for themselves. Whatever those goals are, they are up to you, however, you should try to create ones that are meaningful to you and what you want to achieve as a person. Another tip when setting new goals is to write them down on paper. Writing your goals down gives you a sense of focus and can be put in a space to remind you throughout the year. 

Try something new

Another way to start your new year off right is by trying something new! Oftentimes, we as people get into a comfort zone where we don’t necessarily go out and try new things. Whether you try a new activity or a new restaurant, doing something new or something you’ve “always wanted to do” will get the year off to an adventurous start!

Take time for yourself

Another way to make the start of the year more positive is by taking more time for yourself. Taking more time for yourself is so beneficial for your mental health. Whether that be journaling, meditating, exercising or taking a nap here or there, be sure you are taking time for yourself in 2022. 

Help others

Lastly, nothing makes life more fun and happy than doing good. As the new year begins, start off positive by doing more for others. Whether that is random acts of kindness, volunteering or donating to an organization in your community, there are many opportunities to help others and make a difference in your community.

As we celebrate Christmas later this week, and the new year a week later, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you will better yourself in 2022. Use these tips to help make a positive start to your new year!