some tips for 2018:

- smiles and compliments go such a long way. if you notice someone curled their hair, comment on it! they probably spent such a long time spraying product in and getting the ringlets just right. a kind word might just make their day

- you are not going to be happier if you lose three pounds, or thirty, or whatever your goal is. self love is a process with no real endpoint. i guess there’s just a moment when you look at yourself in the mirror in some lacy underwear, and even though you can still pinch the fat on your stomach and thighs, you can’t help but think to yourself ‘i’d totally fuck me.’

- cuddle with your pets every chance you get. animals have the purest souls in this world. it’ll do you good to soak up some of their positivity.
read a book, even if you’re not really a reader, maybe especially if you’re not really a reader. go to a book store on your day off and find something you’re interested in. bestsellers are always a good bet! and then just start reading a chapter or two every night.

- don’t fuck with men who get uncomfortable around the idea of periods. don’t fuck with men who won’t go down on you because it’s ‘gross’. don’t fuck with men who say they’re feminists but talk shit about women behind their backs. and if your confidence ever makes them feel insecure: don’t. fuck. with. them.

- although you might want to, don’t procrastinate! if you prioritize school and actually do your work instead of spending mindless hours binge watching netflix, your mental health will thank you.

- do the kind of exercise you like doing. if you go on the elliptical or treadmill for thirty minutes, you might burn calories, but you will not stick to it in the long run, and will therefore not see results. try doing hot yoga with your best friend or going on long walks with your dog. stick to a schedule, don’t give up, and the results will come. i promise.

- also, when you work out, make sure you’re not in the mindset of ‘burning calories’, you need to be in the mindset of ‘turning calories into muscle’.

- cut the negativity from your life. get rid of that painting that freaks you out. block your ex’s number. and don’t be afraid to cut out a relative, too. you don’t owe anyone anything. if a cousin or sibling or parent is a source of negativity in your life, leave. i know people say ‘family first’, but that’s bullshit. you come first. taking charge of your mental/ physical health is not selfish. you do not have to take shit from anybody, ever.

- enjoy your life! get drunk at a frat party. make out with a stranger. wake up early one saturday and have a little nature photoshoot with your best friends.

- don’t worry about the little things!

- don’t stress about things you have no control over!

- spread love and kindness and positivity always!