The New Year is literally the best time to make fresh, new starts to everything. There’s just something about it that’s so appetizing. Everyone agrees, too: the gym is always so packed during the first couple of months of the year (then those treadmills and elliptical machines slowly begin to open up come March), your friends are probably trying (key word= trying) to step away from the self-serve French fry station at the dining hall, and you might be ignoring your ex for good (maybe.)
You may be thinking that, oh, those are such good ideas! But it’s the end of January- definitely too late to be starting up a New Year’s Resolution. And if that’s what you’re thinking, you’re definitely not alone. But, guess what: the thrill of starting new habits at the beginning of the year isn’t the only way you can improve yourself and your life in general. You can, and should, start anytime. Just tell yourself to start the next day!
I’ve accumulated a list of some extremely generic, key resolutions that you can start tomorrow to better yourself. And although it can be super difficult to stick to them, they really are important and will change your life for the better.
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Drink lots of water: All right, chances are that you’ve heard this from everyone. But drinking 8 glasses of water a day is totally essential for healthy everything. It can help control your calories; this is especially crucial if you’re starting up working out and eating better. It also helps clear your skin of acne. Drinking a substantial amount of water a day helps hydrate your hair, which will then stimulate healthy hair growth. I could go on foreverrrrrr about the many, many benefits to drinking the right amount of water a day.
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Get enough sleep: Again, something you probably hear from everyone, whether it’s your mom, friend, or teacher. Eight hours of sleep a night is ideal, but let’s be real here, it’s nearly impossible for us college kids to get eight hours every night. Aim for seven hours. This will help your body function properly during the day and enable you to pay better attention in class.
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Workout and eat healthy: You already know the benefits to working out and eating healthy. But, hellloooo, spring break is right around the corner! AKA bikini week. Try to steer clear of the self-serve fries at the dining hall, and make time to workout, even if you have a crazy AF schedule. Also, I find that if I am working out and eating with my friends, it’s a lot easier to stick to your healthy plans. Encourage your friends, and they will encourage you, too!
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Begin your day a little early: If you are one to be late to everything (totally me,) try setting your alarm a half hour early each morning. I HATE being late to things, and I definitely can’t be late to any of my classes this semester- there’s no way I can sneak in unnoticed. Being on time personally makes my day so much easier, and I’m sure it does for you, too.
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Think positively: There’s no need to dwell on small, unimportant things. Don’t jump to conclusions. Look at all situations with a positive, open mind. Look forward to the future!
Happy New Year’s Resolution-Making, Collegiates!