Not too long ago, I talked about cleaning out your dorm in order to help get your life on track. Hopefully, you took some of that advice and put it to good use.

Whether you did or didn’t (what are you waiting for? Go for it!), the weather is getting cooler and the holiday season is getting ready to make our already busy lives a big ball of stress. Now is the time to do a clean-sweep on your brain. What do I mean by that? You’re in dire need of an attitude overhaul!

The best part: not only will you feel like a new person…you will be. Thanks to Dumb Little Man I’ve read his wonderful advice and made it a little more college-centric. So, let’s take a minute and make a plan to better ourselves!

The first and most important step is to understand that by changing your thoughts, you will shape a more positive life. This sounds scary, but it’s not about brainwashing yourself. It’s about knowing that positivity breeds positivity.

DLM then outlines 9 steps that will aid you in beginning your transformation, but what I find most useful is his number one rule: Make an Appointment With Yourself

It’s important to take a moment out of your busy day to sit with your thoughts. It’s sounds very hippie-dippy…like I’m some kind of Earth Child, but just take my word for it. This time will allow you to relax, think, sort out your thoughts, and daydream about all the possibilities your life can take.

Next, I think it’s important to make like the student you are and take some notes on yourself. Write down everything; your goals, your aspirations, your fears. Everything. This allows your thoughts to be tangible, and subconsiously keeps you accountable to yourself which gives you a better chance at succeeding at whatever it is you want to do.

Then, find yourself a mentor. This doesn’t have to be what it sounds like (when I think mentor I think professor…or something along those lines). It can be a friend, a roommate, in fact, you don’t even have to know the person in real life! Who do you look to as the ultimate? Who inspires you? Who do you think of when you think of people who have “made it”? Make these people available to you.

The last step that I think is vital to clearing your mind and revamping your outlook is quite obvious, but ironically the most overlooked step. Take action! It’s about making yourself a priority. Yes, I know that English paper is also a priority, but if you’re anything like me, if your life is chaotic, that paper isn’t going to get done anyway.

Don’t be afraid to upgrade your life! We’re all young here! If you don’t do it now, when will you?

What are you aiming to change about your attitude?