Bringing in the New Year often comes with the feeling of getting a fresh start or turning over a new leaf. It is a time where we can re-evaluate and begin working towards personal goals, creating healthy habits, or checking items off of a bucket list. This idea that we get a chance to start over at the beginning of the new year is probably why so many people make new year’s resolutions. We look back on the previous year and notice things that could have gone better, things that may need to be changed completely in the future, and things that could be implemented to improve our lives. However, we know that most new year’s resolutions do not last very long. Upon observation, it seems that most people keep up with their new year’s resolutions for the first month or so of the new year before quitting. I have experienced that phenomenon in my own life, which is why I have actually given up on making new year’s resolutions in the last couple of years. However, I recently came to the conclusion that there must be a more sustainable way to go about resolutions: instead of deciding to suddenly make big lifestyle changes and ending up unable to maintain them, it’s better to slowly create healthy habits that will eventually become routine and naturally a part of the way I live.
Below is a short list of personal goals that will hopefully guide me on the path to creating healthy habits in this new year. I made each goal time-specific, attainable, and personalized in order to increase the likelihood of actually being able to achieve it. I encourage you to make your own list and do the same. For example, instead of making a goal that says, “I will go to the gym more this year,” try saying, “I will become more physically active this year, starting with going to the gym twice a week for 30 minutes each day.” Then, create a specific plan for how you will spend your time during those sessions.
1. Read a book each month. This year I want to increase my general knowledge base and I know that reading more will help me along with that goal. I set the goal of one book per month because I know that is what is attainable for me and my schedule. This may sound like quite a lofty goal, considering that we already have assigned readings for class. However, I realized that if I replace some of my time that I spend watching Netflix and engaging in other non-productive activities with reading, this goal is actually quite feasible.
2. Branch out and talk to someone new each week. This year I want to get out of my comfort zone a little more and create new connections with people. Speaking to a new person each week, in whatever capacity, will naturally lead me to become more inclined to and less afraid of making connections with new people.
3. Explore a new place at least once a month. Whether it is a new study spot, a trendy new clothing store, or a new place to eat, I think it is important to get a change of scenery and explore the world around me.
Overall, I am hoping that this new year will bring lots of happiness, health, and love all around. With the new habits I plan on implementing, I think I should be well on my way soon. I wish the same for all of you in this new year!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.