The New Year is here, and with it comes the list of resolutions that some will inevitably give up on by the end of March. Many will be left feeling frustrated that their goals will not be achieved or that their goals do not have automatic results. I have complied a list of resolutions that are stepping stones to reach many of the common goals of 2018.
1. Moderation is key
For those looking to lose the weight that was gained from all those delicious Christmas cookies, it is important to remember that moderation is key. Many who want to lose weight in the New Year, jump into a new routine without a proper understanding of how to transition in a healthy way. It is ok and even encouraged to still treat yourself with sweet treats and rest days.
2. Call Family and friends
Another common goal of the New Year is to spend more time with people that matter the most to you. Being away at school, it can be hard to be in constant contact with your loved ones. However, if you schedule times during the week to talk to each other, like when you are walking home from the lib, it will help you to stay in touch and to be more of a constant in your everyday lives
3. Take time for yourself
I am a big believer in skin care, especially facemasks. For those who want to get clearer skin over the course of the year, you can even try to make your own. They all use minimal ingredients and specialize in different factors that you may want to enhance. They are the perfect way to pamper yourself and get a glow in the New Year. Make pampering yourself a priority in the New Year, this will help to decrease stress and make you feel more energized throughout the day.
4. Appreciate everyday
One of my biggest resolutions is to be more present in the everyday moments. One of my favorite ways to do this, is by utilizing an app I purchased at the beginning of this past summer. It is called one-second everyday. With this app, you take video clips everyday of something that has significance to you in anyway. The app edits the clip to 1 second in length, after a period of time you have a compilation of video memories to look back on. It is great way to visually see what caused you to smile each day, and it forces you to see the good in everyday.
Another way to appreciate everyday is with a gratitude jar. Starting on the first day of the New Year, fill up a jar of memories and moments you are thankful for. On the last day of that year, you open and read them all. It is a great way to look back and see what was meaningful to you throughout the year
5. Declutter your life
This may seem fairly vague, but it is meant to be. People can have ‘clutter’ in various aspects of their life. It can be as simple as clearing out a closet or taking time to clear your mind.
6. Give back to your community
I have always been a big advocate for volunteer work and community service. I think it’s important, that no matter how small the gesture, you give back in some way. There are plenty of ways to get involved, either though organizations on your campus or close to your hometown. During the holiday season, I was lucky enough to be able to bake for families in the Ronald McDonald house. Something as simple as making a cookie for another person had the ability to brighten their whole day.
As you begin your journey into 2018, the resolutions you make will become the building blocks for how you live you life.