Each semester, I try to do better than the last. Before each new start though, I usually make a list of some unrealistic goals that will probably not come true. At least I accept that I am lying to myself.

1. Study harder

This semester the goal is to schedule in studying time every week. You can’t succeed in life without working hard, so I better be on the top of my game when it comes to not cramming the night before an exam.

2. Maybe go on a run once in a while.

Maybe. I’m not making any promises, but a run around town once in a while probably wouldn’t kill me.

3. Try yoga... again.

I mean, I did buy a yoga mat last semester that I used once. It seems like a peaceful activity, especially if you actually knew what you were doing.

4. Limit spending.

If anything, I’ve been busy studying money-saving videos. Hopefully, the hours I’ve spent watching won’t be wasted, like all the money I’ve spent in the past month.

5. Spend more time with friends.

I don’t want to say no to plans anymore. If my friends want to go out to dinner or to the movies, I plan on going with them, so I will not regret missing out later. Too bad doing so will contradict the limiting spending goal.

6. Try to remember the names of my classmates.

I can go a whole month without remembering the name of the student sitting next to me in my class, even if I talk to them every class period. College students are slammed with so many names during syllabus week, and then it is just awkward to ask after talking to them for a few classes. I am sorry to everyone next to me who expects me to know their names. I truly am trying my best.

7. Never show up just one minute before class.

Maybe two minutes before, but one minute is pushing it just a little bit. I need to seem as if I have my life together somewhat at least.

8. Put my health first.

If I feel ill, I need to take the time to make the doctor’s appointment. Other tasks can wait because whatever it is won’t matter if I’m dying.

9. Find more little things that make me happy.

Maybe I should just take up knitting or something, that sounds enjoyable, I think. I need to take more breaks from my hectic schedule and just do something peaceful. I will accept any recommendations for fun little activities that may turn into hobbies, so I can sound more exciting when introducing myself during icebreakers.

10. Read more novels.

I plan on maybe reading one book a week that isn’t just for a class. That might be very unrealistic, but I can dream at least.

11. Clean more often.

As someone who now lives in an apartment, I have begun to understand that cleaning is highly important with so many different rooms. I don’t know where all of this hair could have possibly come from, it’s just my three long-haired, female roommates and I here.

12. Spend less time on social media.

I need to concentrate more on the world around me. It’s not the best idea to walk around campus looking like a zombie as I stare at my phone.

13. Enjoy being a college student.

I need to enjoy being a college student. It’s not all exams and homework, even though it may seem like it. College is important for creating new relationships and memories. I have to enjoy it while I still have the chance.

A girl can dream, right?