I’ve never really made New Year’s resolutions in the past. I didn’t think they were necessary, or I didn’t want to/couldn’t follow through with them. Until this year, that is.

I’ve been getting the overwhelming urge to make life changes lately. I realized the universe isn’t just going to hand me happiness and success; I’ve got to make it for myself. So I came up with some ideas in order to ensure I have my best year so far.

First of all, I am going to focus more on my own happiness. My whole life, I do everything with consideration for what other people will think or feel about it. 

In doing so, I’ve ended up getting the short end of the stick in most situations. I’m going to change that. 

I don’t mean I’m going to stop caring about others; I’m just going to put my own happiness first when it’s appropriate. I’m going to focus on my own life, work toward goals, and do what I can to make my life the best that I can.

My second resolution is to switch to electronic cigarettes. I’ve had them for a few months now, but I haven’t committed to the switch yet. I keep coming up with excuses, but that’s got to stop, too. 

I’ve been smoking for a little less than three years now, and the sooner I quit, the better. Although e-cigs do have nicotine, they don’t contain any of the harsh chemicals or additives that cigarettes do, and they don’t use real smoke — just water vapor. They’re so much healthier for you, they aren’t obtrusive to others, and they can be used pretty much anywhere.

Third, I’m going to try my best to stop procrastinating. I know I probably won’t be able to completely quit that habit, but I’m going to work at it. Procrastination has been my downfall since middle school, and if I can overcome that, I’ll get so many more things done.

Last, I plan on being more responsible and organized. That means actually following through with plans/promises, being more reliable, keeping things clean (like my car, room and desk), better time and money management, and figuring out what my priorities are. 

I realize that’s quite the list to accomplish, but I’m going to do my best to follow through with the majority of my resolutions. This is my last year of being a teenager. 

Soon I’ll have more work and responsibilities than I ever imagined, and I’ve got to be ready for that. The best way for me to do that is to start preparing myself now, so that when that time does come, I’ll be ready.

I want to be a positive change in someone’s life. I want to make a change on the world. I don’t exactly know how I’m going to accomplish that yet, but I think starting with the local newspaper is a pretty good way to start. 

I just want to say (again!) thank you so much for your positive feedback on my columns/articles. It really means the world to me to know the people reading my work don’t think it’s terrible. 

I appreciate the people who take time out of their day to read what I wrote; it’s what motivates me to keep doing what I am, and to keep moving forward and working towards something even bigger.

I hope you all had a safe and fun holiday season, and I look forward to another year of interacting with and informing the community. Thanks again everyone; until next time.