Change is not always a terrible thing. While it does not occur quickly, it does happen over time. You may not be aware of it, but every single time you get up–you are changing. Soon, you will even begin to recognize the tiny differences in how you view things, behave, and interact with the people around you.

Some days, you will look back and realize you are missing the person you used to be. But always remember that life is all about progress and constant change. When you change, it simply means you are maturing and realizing that you are deserving of better things. You are allowing your universe to become extensive, more diverse, and full of unending ambitions.

What better time to embrace those newfound affirmations than in the coming year? With every new year comes new resolutions. These aspirations are often idealistic wishes for more personal goals–but however you look at them, they can help you improve yourself.

Now, as 2021 draws close and everyone prepares to enter 2022, it is time for you to embrace that change by making your own set of resolutions. To help you get started, here are some points to consider:

Don’t be afraid of accountability

In everything you do and whatever decisions you have to make, take ownership. There will be days that you might falter and fail, but accepting that you are in charge of your life will give you a better outlook when it comes to overcoming setbacks. Adopting this trait will assist you in reaching your goals in life. It is helpful in various fields, but people in business will benefit the most from this lesson.

Try to learn something new every once in a while

Engaging in a new hobby or learning more about something completely new will help develop one’s innovation and become more alert. Life will feel tedious and repetitive if we lose our curiosity and drive to learn new things. If we want to progress in school or at work, we must be open to change and growth. Of course, take a break if it feels overwhelming, but never forget to make that one step forward every day.

Eat healthier food

Always remember to take care of yourself, starting with the food that you eat. A well-balanced diet is imperative for keeping a healthy body and mind. A diet consisting of nutritious meals and foods consumed at regular intervals will help nourish the body. Meanwhile, occasional fresh and healthy snacks will provide the body and mind with more energy to stay attentive throughout the day.

It’s okay to take some risks

Many individuals are afraid to take even the most minor of risks in their lives. By doing so, they are missing out on a significant number of lessons to learn from taking those massive leaps of faith. For the most part, the lack of understanding and experience turns into fears which hold us back. But once you overcome those fears, you get to see your mental strength improve. Whatever the outcome of those risks, you still get to grow throughout the process.

Always invest in yourself

You can accomplish self-investment in various ways, such as learning a new language, learning how to fix a car, or simply treating yourself to a good meal or a relaxing day out. Improving oneself is a constant process–one where you must consistently nourish yourself with new experiences, learnings, or small rewards. You are what you have learned in the past, and you will continue to learn in the future.

Allow yourself to live in the moment

Some people try to live as if they have complete control over everything, to the point that it leads to burnout. There may be times when things go as planned, but this will not always be the case. It can become too stressful and overwhelming to try and manage every second of your life. Instead, allow yourself to pause and live in the moment. Take some time to breathe and to live in the present without worrying about the future. When you allow yourself to focus on the now, your future will continue to change.

Choose the energy you absorb wisely

There are so many negative people around us who will choose to find and point out the bad in you, your work, or in anything that you show them. It is time to say farewell to such individuals. What matters most is how you perceive yourself. Welcome more positive individuals into your life and learn from them.

It is all right to change and let go of old beliefs that no longer serve you. It is fair to replace your old character with a new one that you are proud of. It is your adventure, your life, and you are allowed to change parts of yourself that you do not like without explaining yourself to the rest of the world.

2022 is another year for us to grow and be the best version of ourselves, so take this time as an opportunity to reflect and create those positive affirmations.