They say promises are meant to broken. Well, New Year’s resolutions are essentially promises themselves, and, more time than not, they end up falling under the “broken” category. A lot of New Year’s resolutions are pure-hearted goals; however, they’re ambitious. With a large, dead set goal in mind, it can be overwhelming and discouraging when you might get a step behind because, well, life happens. Here are nine resolutions that are achievable, approachable, and are bound to lead you towards that larger goal you may/may not have:
1. Take more photos
You never know when a moment may end up being one of a lifetime. Boost your confidence with more selfies; remember those seemingly typical nights out with your friends by snagging an extra photo or two of your surroundings; and, bug your loved ones with that not-so-beloved flash. 2017 can be one for the memory books…if you remember to document it.
2. Have "no spend days"
It’s hard to say at the beginning of the year “Hey, I’m going to spend less money this year!”. Instead, take initiative with something small, like picking a day of the week of which you choose not to spend any money. For example, if lazy Sundays are your thing (don’t worry, me too), make a pact to not order any takeout on Sunday evenings. Don’t go shopping because you’re bored. Make sure you’re stocked up on groceries at the beginning of the week. You’ll feel better about yourself, and your bank account will thank you as well.
3. Get healthy, not skinny
Weight loss is perhaps the most prevalent New Year’s resolutions there is…therefore, it’s also the most broken. Instead of setting ridiculous pound goals for yourself, decide to shop healthier. Buy organic only, make time for the gym, or moderate your sugar intake. None of this should be “weight-goal-oriented”, but rather a resolution that thanks your body for always being there for you.
4. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is an extremely important aspect of life that many ignore partially or totally. Taking a minute throughout the day to recognize where you are, what you’re doing, and objectively feeling your existence will help your mental health overall, piece by piece.
5. Buy a day planner
This goes hand in hand with the vague goal to “get organized”. Start off by getting a calendar or day planner for the year 2017. Although technology has taken over the realm of organization, a lot of times it can be helpful (in terms of remembrance) if you physically write down a date and time for appointments, parties, or any other specified activity.
6. Make to-do lists
Again, getting organized is an ambitious task. To cheer yourself on, make little to-do lists when you feel overwhelmed. This isn’t something you need to do everyday, but sometimes it’s nice to tick off little tasks on a larger list. It’s a confidence boost for the mind to know that you’re progressing through life.
7. Have more faith in yourself
Before freaking out and tearing yourself down over an assignment, ask yourself: “have I ever had serious issues with missing deadlines? Was there ever time where I just didn’t get things done?” Even if you’re running on finishing an assignment, remind yourself that you have done this before, and it has also worked out before.
8. Pamper yourself
Eat your favorite food once a week. Make time to binge-watch Netflix one Saturday night instead of going out. Get a massage. Throw your blankets in the dryer for 10 minutes for some high-class snuggling on cold evenings. The implications of this resolution are totally up to you...just not on your "no spend days"!
9. Be with people who make you feel good about yourself
Let 2017 be the year that the negativity in your life disappears.
