Prior to coming to college, I rarely drank water unless it was the only option for a beverage. I loathed having to drink 64 ounces of this incredibly important compound, simply because other drinks were much more accessible. I grew up living a very hectic and strenuous high school life, complete with 30+ hours of rehearsal per week, and yet I still neglected to take care of my body in the easiest manner possible. However, upon coming to college, I find that I drink 64 ounces of water quite easily, without complaint, and usually with a huge smile on my face. So why the sudden change? I set a goal. I followed through on my New Year’s Resolution (shocker, I know). And I finally wanted to make a positive change on my physical health.
My acne is gone. I am less fatigued. I am much happier with my body. Simply put, the simple task of drinking water has changed my life. For most, neglecting and failing to drink the proper amount of water seems like a very large “first world problem;” however, growing up in a society where junk food and soft drinks are easily accessible, drinking water can be a hassle for some. As a college student, there’s an unfortunate stereotype that students only drink water because it is inexpensive and (usually) free. Although, for most on my campus, I find that students drink water because they genuinely enjoy drinking water. Back home, I became used to continually drinking the beautiful life nectars of sweet tea and Coca-Cola. But at Carnegie Mellon, I drink my recommended daily dose of 64 ounces of water almost every day I can.
However, I find myself reflecting on various short-term goals that I’ve set over the years and realize that my goal of drinking the proper amount of water is no different. My short term goals record is lackluster at best, but I have progressively improved my ability to accomplish and stick with important routines. Along with drinking water, I follow an extensive skin care routine, I get exercise 30 minutes each day, and I set aside time each day to relax and breathe. All of these small short-term goals will have long-term effects, but changes over your lifetime should always begin as short-term goals.
In due time, I’m hoping that I can quit biting my nails and start to get more sleep/establish a more consistent sleep schedule—maybe even begin working out more consistently. However, after taking time to reflect on these small life changes, I realize that these goals do not seem so far-fetched. With something as simple as casually drinking water, I dramatically improved my physical and mental health, which ultimately leads me to believe that any goal I set for my future is contingent upon a short-term goal. In a society where it is incredibly easy to become overwhelmed and lost in our work, it comforts me to know that I can affect large amounts of change with just a simple choice.
