For many, the ringing in of the new year is an opportunity to start out fresh with renewed commitment to their goals. These can range from eating healthier to finally being able to afford to move into a nicer apartment—but they are, for the most part, long-term goals. With an entire year to work at accomplishing these goals, it can seem like anything is possible. However, often people feel overwhelmed or are unable to keep to their New Year’s resolution because they did not make a plan to achieve their goals or their goals may be unrealistic. It is important to bear in mind the implications of these resolutions before getting in too deep. In the spirit of meeting goals in 2016, here is a list of five New Year’s resolutions and how to keep them.
1. “I want to get in shape.”
This one is probably the most common. With fashion trends shifting toward the new year and a plethora of advertising material promising a quick and painless weight loss experience, the pressure is on to get fit. With the latest styles tailored to a specific body type and a get-fit-quick guarantee from the folks on television, it seems like there is no choice but to sign up for a program and drop 50 pounds. While the beginning of 2016 is the ideal time to start thinking about fitness goals, it is important not to overdo it. Start slow and find out what works for you. Fad diets generally are not very effective, but maybe you start making healthier choices like cutting soda out of your diet. Instead of jumping headlong into a pre-packaged workout program, research a few exercises for meeting your specific goals. Is it weight loss, body building, or do you just want six-pack abs? Whatever it is, there is a resource out there for your fitness goals. You may buy equipment for your home or purchase a gym membership, but chances are because you did the legwork to prepare for your new plan, you will stick with it. Avoid burnout and disappointment by making your own plan or seeing a trainer instead of falling in with the New Year’s rush buying the one-size-fits-all programs.
2. “I want to start a new job.”
Being happy in your career is critical to your well-being. Life is too short to be miserable for eight hours every day. Whether it entails moving up the corporate ladder or quitting your current job for a better one, there are some do's and don’ts for finding that perfect dream job. First and foremost, it is important to have something lined up before talking to management about giving notice. One of the biggest mistakes people make is getting frustrated over the busy holiday season and quitting outright. A better way to go about this is to beef up your resume and start networking. Find something you are passionate about and would enjoy doing, even if that something is only part of the job you are looking at. Go to some interviews and meet with people. Show them you can be personable and professional by using proper interviewing etiquette. Then, when you have an offer, give at least two weeks’ notice in writing to your employer. It is a small courtesy, but one that they will appreciate. Moving on does not have to be unpleasant. Do not get caught up in emotion and say something you will regret later. Make the decision to move up or move on, make a plan, make a connection, and make it happen.
3. “I want to be happier.”
Happiness is the most simplistic goal and yet one of the hardest to achieve. The holidays can be a wake-up call. Suddenly you realize you are not as happy as you think you could be and it is time to make a change. A lot of these resolutions take the form of social media statements like, “Cutting people off in 2016,” or the classic, “New year, new me, see you 2016.” While the idea of leaving your past behind you and removing toxic people from your life is a step in the right direction, it is unhealthy to completely abandon relationships in favor of being more independent because you still need that support network. Instead of cutting people off, prioritize relationships based on how well you know the person and whether you see them more than once a month. For those that you aren’t particularly close with, keep as an acquaintance so your network stays intact. Obviously for those you are close with, keep them close. They will play a big part in your happiness, not in the sense that they will make you happy, but they will reflect what you put out and generally make for a happier environment. Beyond relationships with friends and family, look to what brings you satisfaction and focus on that. Make small, incremental changes based on the things that fulfill you and your life will become more meaningful. Finally, do not feel disheartened because you are not happy all the time. Happiness is a fluid concept that will inevitably come and go. It is not how your life unfolds that defines happiness, but how you react and adjust to make positive changes.
4. “I am going to do better in school this year.”
If you want to earn better grades or improve a certain aspect of your college career, start by reading the syllabuses and schedules, making yourself a calendar of all work and other school obligations. Creating a visual aid will help you plan and organize your assignments. Work at least a week in advance. Maybe take the weekend to do all homework for the week ahead or start a project immediately rather than waiting until closer to the due date. Search how-to videos online, as these can be a great source for supplemental information if from a reliable source. Take notes while you read and then take keynotes from the lecture in class. That way, you know what is most important and can guide your studying accordingly. Try to make at least one connection in each class so you have a homework buddy or someone to study with if you are not doing as well as you would like. Ultimately though, doing better in school is an abstract goal that requires a specialized approach, so figure out how you learn and adjust your note-taking and study strategy accordingly. To keep this goal, look at the grades you want and compare them to the grades you have. Decide what you are willing to do and determine if that is a realistic course of action. Then, stick with a routine until you see results.
5. “I want to find love.”
Dating is a challenge for many people. The awkwardness of being alone is exacerbated at family gatherings where everyone has a significant other except you. Very few people genuinely enjoy being alone, especially during the holidays. While self-love and introspection are important tools for positive growth, people still feel the desire to be with someone. The new year is a great time to step out of your comfort zone. If you have trouble meeting people, put yourself out there more. Go to places where people socialize. Or, start an online dating profile. Maximize your chances for social interaction. You won’t meet anyone if you don’t go out and try. When you do meet someone, be up front with them and ask if they’re interested. Stop all the song and dance and just be honest. Most importantly, be confident. Even if you have to fake it, walk up to that special person like you are a superhuman with nerves of steel. Smile, speak calmly but firmly, and be unapologetically yourself. Go on a date and do not be afraid to be unconventional. Find something you both enjoy and do it together. Let the person compliment you rather than searching for someone to complete you. Just have fun with dating and you will find someone worth spending time with.
