Let's be honest, as Christmas is winding down, we're all beginning to think about the New Year. What do I want to achieve in the New Year? - that's the big question for everyone right now. We all know the truth about resolutions - they don't work. Even so, I think I have a few suggestions that might change that. Here are a few tips and some of my personal replacements for other resolutions that I find helpful:
1. Stop procrastinating/Be more productive
We're getting to the hardest one first. I feel like I always make this a mental resolution, but I never take it seriously. But, I'll let you know what changed my life. A beautiful and lovely planner. My peer advisor recommended for me to purchase a planner and I eventually did. Honestly, having everything written down motivates me to complete it earlier than if I were to normally just place the task in my brain and remember it for later. But, never plan your day hour by hour. It's too stressful and doesn't give the day breathing room (which every normal being needs). Instead, plan one task for each day, like finishing your paper for English or adding the finishing touches to your art project. You'll find that the more time you give yourself on a designated day(s), you'll be more likely to do a little here and there and finish it before you start stressing.
2. Diet
If your goal is to eat better, consider "cutting out chocolate" or "no soda" instead of going cold turkey and going full blown on a strict diet. You're less likely to break a little habit than a big lifestyle change. That way, you're still cutting calories without ending your resolution before it even gets started.
3. Be More Active
Saying you'll go to the gym five times a week when all you do is sit on your couch is not necessarily realistic. If this is your ultimate goal and you can be disciplined quickly, then find a gym buddy, set up a schedule, and make it happen. But, if you're like the rest of us, then maybe try and cut the weekly gym visits down and then build it up once you start building a habit.
4. Water
This is a fun challenge that I still incorporate in my daily life! I have always been really bad at being a basic human and nourishing my body with its daily needs. I had an app that reminded me of how much water I should be drinking throughout the day. Soon you'll notice that you feel better and your skin looks better, too. Hydration really does solve a lot of issues, but this is a really simple yet life changing resolution to make.
5. Service
I talk about service A LOT because it truly did change my life. I think that it's something that is totally awesome and indescribable. Community service is a way of helping someone and changing their life, and in turn, changes yours. I don't think it's for everyone, but I think at least everyone should try it. And even if you yourself don't rave about it as much as me, at least at the end of the day you changed someone's life. And if that's not a great resolution, then I don't know what is.
6. Smile More
At the end of the day, a big goal for everyone should be to smile more. Life can be stressful at times, yes, but try to focus on the good! In the new year, I hope you smile and laugh more than any year you've ever experienced. Smiling is contagious, so next time you see someone, just flash them your lovely smile. Who knows, maybe you'll make their day. A happier year is a good year by far.
I hope you found some helpful tips or inspiring resolutions. And of course...Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
