7 Bad Habits To Leave Behind In 2016

Let’s face it: New Year's resolutions are tough to maintain. In years past, you took on the month of January with every intention of breaking old habits, only to lose motivation by February 1. This year, it’s time to cut out those habits without apology. Here are some healthy adjustments to help you ring in 2016.

1. Procrastination

Fact: Studies show that 80 to 95 percent of college students procrastinate on coursework, often resulting in lower exam scores and overall GPA. Taking a break from the books can be a healthy way to decrease stress, but you can’t avoid those responsibilities forever. This year, try to get on top of schoolwork a little earlier instead of waiting until the last minute. Don’t worry, your Netflix account will still be waiting for you after you write that paper.

2. Poor Sleep Schedule

Fact: The NCBI found that 70 percent of college students are not getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep is directly correlated with a number of negative outcomes ranging anywhere from lower academic success rate to higher vehicular accident rate. In addition, insufficient sleep is associated with numerous physical health problems including obesity, heart attack, and stroke. Save your health by skipping the all-nighters this year.

3. Always Turning To Caffeine To Compensate

Fact: Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine is linked to a number of health complications including headaches, indigestion, high blood pressure, and insomnia. What’s more, a study found that 75 percent of college students use caffeine regularly to stay awake. While you work on improving that sleep schedule, drinking fewer cups of coffee or cans of Red Bull and more water could help you feel your best in 2016.

4. Self-Body Shaming

Fact: According to a medical study, 35 percent of college students develop eating disorders as a result of poor body image and strict dieting. Don't forget that physical appearance is only one aspect of who you are. Each time you look in the mirror this year, focus on the positives of your look and remind yourself that you are beautiful inside and out.

5. Skipping The Gym

Fact: Michigan State conducted a study proving that students who exercise regularly have higher GPAs than students who don’t. Contrary to popular belief, exercise is a healthy way to stimulate the senses and boost overall energy levels. Feeling tired? If you opted for nap time in 2015, give exercise a try when you need to increase energy in 2016.

6. “Nomophobia”

Fact: Psychology Today discovered 66 percent of all adults in the United States experience “nomophobia” (No Mobile Phone Phobia), or anxiety when they are separated from their smartphone. You never know what potential relationships or job opportunities you may be passing up if your focus is constantly directed down at your screen. Take time in 2016 to live in the moment -- not in cyberspace.

7. Extreme Stress

Fact: One-third of American college students suffer from depression symptoms because of the intense amount of stress they face. You can avoid those academic-induced panic attacks this year by listening to your favorite music, taking study breaks with friends, and of course, procrastinating less!