Less than half of American's actually stick to their new year resolutions. Of that half, about 39% of them are of college age. We all like to set unrealistic goals for the new year that we know we'll never accomplish. Some people say they want to go back packing around Europe, go skydiving, or even to meet their favorite celebrity. All power to the people to have such high expectations of the new year. However, here are some more practical resolutions that seem important for someone in college.
1. Get more sleep.
While college is hard and leaves students sleep deprived, having an efficient amount of sleep each night is essential to your health and ultimately your success in the future.
2. Exercise more.
Its hard to maintain a routine every day in college, but exercising at least thirty minutes each day can improve your health in more ways than you think.
3. Eat healthier.
We're all on a budget, and we all would much rather go ham on an eight piece chicken nugget meal from Chickfila rather than eating a salad. Even if you don't choose the healthier alternative, cutting back on caffeine is a simple yet efficient way to improve your health.
4. Cut back on some extra-curricular activities.
While being involved in things such as clubs, greek life, or sports is a great way to get yourself out there around campus and meeting people, it also takes up a lot of useful study time. Many clubs meet regularly and take a lot of your free time away. This can often result in academic decline.
5. Step out of your comfort zone.
Try something at least once or twice a month that helps you get out of your shell and comfort zone. There are campus and student lead events all over campus all the time. Go to that yoga class you've been dying to do all semester. Or talk to that cute guy you see at the coffee place on campus every day. The best memories come from the ones you're not use to.
6. Credit cards are only for emergencies.
We're all broke and already in debt enough up to our necks in student loans. The last thing you want is credit card debt.
7. Finish your papers at least one day in advance.
Professors like to keep you guessing. They could at the last second shorten the extension date on a paper. If you finish it early, you're safe. Plus, procrastination is not your friend.
8. Volunteer at least once a week.
Not only is volunteering a good way to give back to your community, it's also a great way to spend free time or a night off work. Another plus is the networking you can get to help you later in life.
9. Take on a leadership position.
Things can get boring once you have established a daily routine in college. By taking on a leadership position in work or your campus club, it keeps things interesting.
10. Spend time with the people outside of your college friends.
Don't forget about the people back home that were there for you before you went away for college. They were there from the start. Also, maybe invite your work friends for a night out in town on a weekend you all have off.
11. Learn to say "no."
College is full of fun and exciting opportunities. Some harmless, some risky. Know when its okay to say "no" to a night out when you have a test at your 9 a.m. the next morning. You'll thank me later.
Beat the 39% of us who actually fall through with our new years resolutions and set a better expectation for college students trying to better themselves.
