New Year’s resolutions: we love them, we hate them, we make them every year. If you’ve ever followed through with one for the entire year or even developed a healthy habit, congratulations! You’re probably one of very, very few. For the rest of you folks, like me, why does it seem absolutely impossible to stay committed to these ambitious, but totally possible goals? While we won’t be getting to the bottom of that any time soon, here are some great resolutions to consider as a college student and ways to accomplish them! And don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be January 1st to make some needed changes in your life.
1. Get Organized
Even with two planners, multiple calendars, and plenty of time to prepare, somehow I still struggle with getting my assignments and exams organized. Organization is essential to doing well in school, so my new organizational goal is to make a study schedule!
2. Do The Readings
I can hear you laughing. Don’t worry, this is as funny to me as it is to you, but doing the readings could make studying for exams so much easier!
3. Raise Your GPA
This is ambitious, I know, but anything is possible with a little determination and a truck load of caffeine!
4. Get involved
This is a photo of one of Boston College’s activity fairs, in case you didn’t know (which could be a sign you should attend the next one). Joining clubs and campus programs is an awesome way to become friends with people whose interests and values reflect your own!
5. Watch Less, Read More
If you find yourself watching Netflix daily but never reading books for fun, this one’s for you. Try replacing Netflix with a good book! A couple tips for success here is to refrain from starting any new shows and to start a “books-to-read” list!
6. Start A Regular Fitness Regimen
Ah yes, the infamous fitness resolution. This may be the most daunting of all, but don’t knock it before you try it! One of the hardest parts of working out is simply starting, so get that first workout out of the way and go from there!
7. Drink More Water
Sometimes I forget that my body needs water to function properly, which leads to constant exhaustion and intense headaches. Hydration is so important but so easily forgotten. Try to make constant hydration a habit.
8. Cut Down On Sugar
It’s pretty crazy how easy it is to consume excessive and insane amounts of sugar on a daily basis. Excess sugar intake can cause weight gain, tooth decay, and a slew of other major health problems. A couple ways to cut back include eliminating soda, cutting back on candy, and decreasing the amount of sugar in your coffee or tea.
9. Prioritize Personal Relationships
Nothing matters more than your loved ones, but it’s easy to forget to make enough time for them. This year, make sure your friends know you love them, call your family more, and let your significant other know that he or she is appreciated. The world may tell us otherwise, but it’s impossible to love too much.
10. Adventure More
Do you feel like the term “BC bubble” applies to you directly? This year, take advantage of the incredible city of Boston that’s just a short T ride away. You’ll be oh-so glad you did! It’s time to grab your friends and explore the city!
How To Make This Happen
- Write it down: Make a chart, put it in your planner, set an alarm on your phone, make post-it reminders- do anything and everything to set yourself up for success!
- Mutual accountability: Get a friend to hold you accountable. Tell them your goal and ask them to keep up with your progress! You can help them with their goals, too!
- Tell your parents: Parents are great at making sure you don’t lose sight of your goals. They’re also great at nagging you into doing just about anything. Ask them to use their powers for good!
- 4. Treat yo’self: That pair of boots you’ve been eyeing that you can’t justify buying? Wait a month and if you’ve been rocking your resolution for 30 days, treat yourself! If you’ve gotten off track, try again for next month.
Believe it or not, New Year’s resolutions aren’t just a social construct made to remind us of our failures- they’re actually tools for success! The start of a new year is the perfect time to make some changes (and the start of February is the perfect time for a re-do)! Don’t get discouraged if you don’t keep up with your resolutions from the start- it’s going to take some hard work, but it’s totally worth it. Good luck, collegiettes, and remember that HCBC is rooting for you!
Sources
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