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5 Simple Ways You Can Still Make The Most Out Of 2016

It hasn't exactly been a smooth-sailing year for some of us, but that doesn't mean you can't end the year on a high note.

Cover image via NBC

1. When was the last time you sat down and talked to your parents or family members? If the answer to that is "I can't remember" or something along those lines, it's time to make some real time to initiate a meaningful conversation with them.

As the saying goes, family comes first. Even if you're living miles away from each other, your parents and siblings are just a phone or Skype call away.

2. Friends may come and go, but ultimately, it's all down to how much effort you put into maintaining contact with them. Reach out to that one friend you said you will "keep in touch" with two years ago, even if it's just a text message.

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Don't let your friends become strangers as time goes by. If you haven't seen each other in a while, it may be a good idea to arrange a meet-up, either to just hang out with a cup of coffee or coming together for Sunday brunch.

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3. After toiling away for the past 11 months, now may be a good time to take some time off work. Give yourself a chance to relax and rejuvenate in preparation for the new year.

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Here's your chance to clear off your annual leave days if you had them accumulated over the past year. Take advantage of the long break to go on a getaway vacation with your loved ones or all by your lonesome, if that's what you prefer.

If you're not too keen on leaving home, you can always stay in and do whatever it is that you've always wanted to do during your free time, like curl up with a good book or catching up on the TV shows you've missed.

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4. #TreatYoSelf. Whether it's buying that sparkly jacket you've been eyeing for awhile or heading to the spa for a full-day retreat, the whole point of this exercise is to do something nice for yourself because you deserve this.

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Go to the movies over the weekend or maybe even organise a karaoke session for you and your friends. Make reservations at your favourite restaurant for a spot of good, heavenly food. Better still, if it's sleep you need, then sleep in all you want!

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5. 'Tis the season for giving, so why not spread a little cheer to the people around you? You can make someone's day a little better with small acts of kindness, like sincerely complementing a stranger or giving out random high-fives!

If you're thinking of something a little bigger to give back to society, consider giving to charity or even donating blood. Morbid as the latter may sound, every bit of donated blood matters more than you think to those who need it.

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