New Year, Not So New You
by Alexis M Peters ‘20
The new year is coming up soon, and that means it’s almost time to start thinking about a New Year’s resolution.
Instead of making some cliche resolution about eating healthier, or something you won’t realistically accomplish like working out everyday, pick something that’s actually attainable. Chances are you don’t even remember what your resolution was last year. That’s why I want to challenge you to this: Come January, make a resolution that’s unique and actually write it down. Writing down your goals makes it much more likely that you’ll actually achieve them.
So, let’s get into it! Here are 10 not cliche New Year’s resolutions you could take for your own!
1. Practice Gratitude
It is important to bring attention to the things in our lives which we love. When you focus on the things that you’re grateful for, those things expand, bringing more positivity into your life.
2. Be more positive
Along the same lines of the first resolution, stop focusing so much on the things that don’t bring you joy. Smile more, and practice optimism.
3. Be a yes man
Say yes more. You never know what wonderful opportunity you may be passing up.
4. Don’t be afraid to say no
Maybe you say yes too much. Learn to say no to things that won’t bring you positivity, or that you are genuinely not passionate about.
5. Travel somewhere new
6. Let go of unnecessary things
People have the habit of holding on to things even when they aren’t adding any real value to their lives. Declutter your closet, and tear apart your room. Go through your belongings and get rid of things you never use anymore, don’t plan to use, or genuinely don’t want. If it doesn’t add value to your life, chuck it!
7. Try something new
Pick up a new hobby, or learn a new language!
8. Do something that scares you
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’ You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
9. Find self love
10. Choose a word of the year
Instead of a resolution, pick one word that you want to define 2019. Maybe it’s bravery, or kindness, or gratitude. Whatever it is, write it down and put it somewhere you will see it every day. Then try to live through the new year with that one word as your guide.
Happy New Year, everyone!
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