Hays: We should all take the opportunity to improve

Sarah Hays

Welcome to mid-September, the time you may be realizing that college might not be “the best time of your life” or “your prime.” The stress of balancing homework, work, class, a social life, sleep and who knows what else is finally settling in. So while we all crank up Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” we can simultaneously celebrate this time of dread.

September, the bland month between summer and Halloween, also happens to be self-improvement month. We all should take the time to improve ourselves, especially now. So, in honor of this, here are five ways to improve yourself and to be a more beautiful person than you already are.

Compliment Your Friends

Every day, try and give your friends a compliment. We all appreciate them, and no matter how many times it is denied, everyone likes to hear good things about themselves.

According to Psychology Today, when we compliment others, it creates a positive environment and mindset not only for the person receiving the nice thoughts, but also for whoever gives the compliment.

So give your friends a compliment today and tomorrow and forever.

Treat Yo’ Self 2017

“It’s the best day of the year,” as Donna and Tom from “Parks and Recreation” famously say.

So, at least once a week, if not more, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to something special. Whether it’s a candy bar, an episode of your favorite TV show (“Parks and Rec.”), or just a day of doing absolutely nothing. One cheat day a week is actually psychologically beneficial. It boosts your mind for the upcoming week and gives you some motivation to make it until your next treat.

Get organized

Even if it’s just cleaning out your inbox. Opening up your computer, only to be bombarded by emails upon emails, is never a good feeling. Taking the extra five minutes every day to delete the ones that you have already opened is crucial to an organized inbox.

Looking through your emails the next day, you will be a lot happier that you only have to delete a few rather than stare at the abyss of people trying to reach you.

Forgive Yourself and Others

We all make mistakes, and we are all capable of forgiving people for those mistakes.

So why wouldn’t we?

According to Mayo Clinic, forgiveness has extreme health benefits, including less anxiety, less stress, lower blood pressure, higher self-esteem and so much more.

Make a Goal

Write down that goal that you’ve been wanting to achieve but keep making excuses for and do it. No matter if it is an emotional, physical, mental or spiritual goal, achieving it will make you feel accomplished, resulting in more goal-reaching.

Beginning with one positive result will only inspire you to do more for yourself and everyone else.

So this month, try all five of these self-improvement ideas. Everyone should take a little time out of their day to focus on themselves and improve who they are.