New Year's Resolutions - A Touch of Clarity
This week is often marked by the start of many New Year's Resolutions - as well as the end of a number of them. This is not meant to discourage you in these goals, but to make you aware that you may need more support as the year goes on. According to statistics, 37% of Americans resolve to "stay fit and healthy", 32% to "lose weight", and about 16% never make resolutions to start with.
To aide you in your quest of sticking to your word this year, and knowing where you might need some help, here are some of the most common broken resolutions.
Lose weight/exercise: In many cases, this one is broken before January is over. Those left standing often give out before March.
Quit smoking: Sadly, six months later, only 15% are still breathing smokeless air
Learn something new: Yes, we are students. This doesn't mean that just because you can do complex calculations in your head or paint the Last Supper from memory that you can naturally become a gourmet chef. Keep at it though - your friends will love to drop by!
Eat healthier: Healthier food costs more - that's no secret. But it can be done on a [college] budget, and there are many resources to help you out.
Watch less TV/spend less time on social media: It isn't uncommon to hear students say "There's nothing to do in Searcy." There's plenty to do if you have the desire to find it. Besides, a car ride is a solid way to make memories regardless of the destination. And while you're out adventuring, actually experience it instead of cataloging it - you'll be glad you were there.
Be less stressed: The epitome of college life, especially around midterms and finals, can be alleviated. Don't have the time? Make time. You can be more productive when you aren't stressed, even if you think "I got this."
Get more sleep: It may sound redundant to the advice above, but they are two different things. With flu on the horizon and the lack of light in the day, your immune system needs all the help it can get. Besides, sleeping through a test is never fun.
I wish you all the best this year in achieving your goals, and don't be afraid to ask for help. We are surrounded by peers, and no one goes without a struggle.
To aide you in your quest of sticking to your word this year, and knowing where you might need some help, here are some of the most common broken resolutions.
Lose weight/exercise: In many cases, this one is broken before January is over. Those left standing often give out before March.
Quit smoking: Sadly, six months later, only 15% are still breathing smokeless air
Learn something new: Yes, we are students. This doesn't mean that just because you can do complex calculations in your head or paint the Last Supper from memory that you can naturally become a gourmet chef. Keep at it though - your friends will love to drop by!
Eat healthier: Healthier food costs more - that's no secret. But it can be done on a [college] budget, and there are many resources to help you out.
Watch less TV/spend less time on social media: It isn't uncommon to hear students say "There's nothing to do in Searcy." There's plenty to do if you have the desire to find it. Besides, a car ride is a solid way to make memories regardless of the destination. And while you're out adventuring, actually experience it instead of cataloging it - you'll be glad you were there.
Be less stressed: The epitome of college life, especially around midterms and finals, can be alleviated. Don't have the time? Make time. You can be more productive when you aren't stressed, even if you think "I got this."
Get more sleep: It may sound redundant to the advice above, but they are two different things. With flu on the horizon and the lack of light in the day, your immune system needs all the help it can get. Besides, sleeping through a test is never fun.
I wish you all the best this year in achieving your goals, and don't be afraid to ask for help. We are surrounded by peers, and no one goes without a struggle.
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