Losing "x" amount of pounds. Cutting out sugar/carbs/fat/food. The association of "resolution" with "weight loss." I know what it’s like to want to fit some ~ideal body~ in the media. But in celebration of 2018 and more meaningful goals, I’ve listed out 18 resolutions you can adopt instead of dieting.
1. Keep up your relationships wholeheartedly.
Relationships are incredibly valuable. Friends to talk to when we’re struggling and when we’re excited, networks of people who can further our career, and family who has our back. Relationships save lives, encourage, and humor us. It’s important to engage in them while we can.
2. Embrace self-love, self-worth and self-care.
When we find ourselves surrounded by people who are more attractive, smart, and successful, self-love can be tough. Ultimately, we must love the thing we’ll have the longest: ourselves. No matter how much we do, we have to take care -- whether that’s finally showering or saying “no."
3. Live that Golden Rule life.
Everything we need to know, we learned in kindergarten. Treating others the way we want to be treated is crucial. It's cliche, but we never know what someone goes through, and we have the power to make their lives better. Hold the door. Run their errand. Don’t flake on plans. Smile often.
4. Try therapy.
Going to therapy is never something to be ashamed of. We all need help and it can be nice to talk things out. To filter through therapists, see here. For cheaper online therapy, see here.
5. Listen to your body. It's smarter than you think.
Tired? Sleep. Cravin’ a cheeseburger? Eat that cheeseburger. Even if it's hard.
6. Crush the h*ck out of rape culture.
In case you haven’t been on social media for the past week-ish, or lack a calendar, or live with Patrick Star under a rock, it’s 2018, people. When I say it’s 2018, I really mean it’s time to eradicate rape myths. Think about how dumb the concept “victim-blaming” sounds. While unfortunately it's very real, why would someone blame the victim…??? Educate yourself and others.
7. When you're having people problems, remember this.
The way people act says more about them and their problems than you. You are more than what someone says. You’re really dang rad and here for a reason. Focus on those who treat you right. Listen to this.
8. Pray.
God’s great, y’all. He loves us NO MATTER WHAT. I can think of absolutely… 0 people like that. If you haven’t talked to Him lately, or ever, consider it. I am #shook by how well prayer works.
9. Exercise to celebrate your body, not punish it.
Bodies do cool, vital things. They do hard work for us, so let's respect them. Let’s exercise to feel good, to treat our bodies well, and because endorphins are fun.
10. Be intersectional–in everything.
Mental illness and violence are public health issues. Know that the way someone looks doesn't determine mental illness. Believe men who are raped. Learn barriers.The same goes for every intersection of identity. Read my article.
11. No fat/muscle/skinny talk, even when it's "friendly."
Phrases you DON’T need: Does this make me look fat? You’re too skinny/fat/muscular! He’s scrawny! You’re not fat, you’re beautiful! Phrases you DO need: I love this outfit. I’m going to find an outfit I feel comfortable in. If you feel comfortable in it, get it! I value you.
12. If you mess up, you aren't a failure. Keep going.
We all mess up. We may not study enough, make a low grade, or say the wrong thing. This doesn’t make us failures -- this makes us human. Screw up your resolution then get right back on track. Don’t beat yourself up.
13. Spend time getting to know yourself deeply.
Summer and school breaks can be lonely. Learn what you like, dislike, and need. What you want to learn. What makes you feel good. What hurts you.
14. Donate time to those less fortunate, using your gifts.
Are you smart? Tutor at an underprivileged school. Are you great with teenagers? Volunteer with a youth group. Are you a soccer player? Lead a fundraiser camp.
15. Put yourself out there; take risks.
Apply to be co-chair of your favorite organization. Interview for an internship. Join a club that seems weird and awesome at the same time. Talk to someone cute. Post your article on a UNC page.
16. Embrace who you are AND try to improve.
Focus on the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” What kind of person do you want to be, do others need?
17. Get educated on mental health and be an ally.
Kati Morton creates videos with advice and info on all topics and mental illnesses. Check out trainings (a-e) and resources (f-h).
a. MH First Aid
b. Sexual & Interpersonal Violence and Stalking
c. Eating Disorders
d. Violence Prevention
f. Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
g. Crisis Text Line: 741-741
h. www.therapists.psychologytoday.com
18. Write for The Odyssey!
Check this out and start writing!
This New Year, let's work to improve not the way our body looks, but the way it feels. Let's deepen our relationships, support and respect all people, aim to be a better version of ourselves and know we are inherently worthy. This way, we can truly make 2018 our year.
