This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Kenyon chapter.
As we think about the new year, we often set goals and resolutions to get us motivated, to give us direction, to set a path for ourselves. But why? Is there really some magical inflection point between the old year and the new one where change—or the ability to change—suddenly manifests itself? Quite frankly no. Change can happen whenever, especially mindset change. But you know what? If it takes having and believing in that one special moment in time to get you going, then go for it. Embrace that moment and think about how to be a better version of you in 2017. And while you’re at it, consider yet another list of 10 things…
1. When you ask “How are you?” think about whether you really want to know the answer. I hate when people ask when they really don’t care to know. If you just want to be pleasant, I’d rather you simply say “Hello” or “Hi” and move on. Don’t suggest a desire to engage when you really don’t wish to engage.
2. Watch a movie by yourself in the theater. It can be scary to be alone. But guess what? When you’re watching a movie in the theater, the whole place is dark! So even if you’re afraid of looking pathetic by yourself, everyone is in the dark and no one will care. And if they do, why does it matter to you if you don’t even know them?
3. Speak up for someone when they’re not in the room. Or even when they’re in the room! Given the recent election, I frequently think about how often people couldn’t speak up for themselves because others were too loud (and obnoxious) or they were too anxious and nervous. I also think about how often different opinions and perspectives were drowned out, intentionally or otherwise. Think about speaking up for someone or something different, if only to make sure we’re not living in isolation.
4. Bake a lattice-top pie from scratch. You know, the kind with the criss cross? Yes, that one! Let’s be clear. The homemade pie crust is hard enough. That lattice nonsense is kind of ridiculous. But guess what? It’s the combination of patience, attention to detail, and commitment that makes that pie look amazing. And if you put in a little effort, it can taste amazing too. Believe in yourself.
5. Ask the why questions. More often than not, we don’t dig in deep enough. Not just with others, but even with ourselves. Why did you make that choice? Don’t let you or anyone else get away with “I don’t know” or “I don’t care”. Even if you make a decision in the moment, there’s a reason you made that decision. Think about why.
6. Change a flat tire. Regardless of whether you know how to drive or not! We take for granted that people used to handle many of their own tasks. With these tasks now automated, delegated, or outsourced, I wonder what we’d do if left to fend for ourselves. So let’s start with the flat tire. There are still many roads on which you could be stopped, in the middle of the night, without assistance nearby. Don’t get stuck.
7. Take a look at the stars and wonder how they got there. If you want to know, find out. If you don’t want to know, live in your wonder. There are some things that are worth finding out more about. There are other things that are meant to delight us in their novelty and uniqueness. Don’t feel like you have to know everything about everything. Allow yourself the luxury of being amazed.
8. Pay for someone else’s coffee. Or ice cream. Or taco. A small gesture can mean a lot to someone else. And even if it doesn’t, it reminds you that it’s not just or all about you. Some gestures are worth undertaking simply for the sake of being kind. The world could certainly use more reminders of goodness.
9. Smile more. And no, I don’t mean just women. I mean everyone. We tend to dwell on our complaints, failures, and sadnesses, yet we linger so briefly in our joys and successes. Take the time to embrace what makes you happy, no matter how small or how large.
10. Work on your words. Communication (or lack thereof) is often the root of our ills. If you can’t say the words out loud (yet), then write them down (first). Say them to a mirror. Say them to a friend. Then say them when you’re ready to say them. Don’t run away.
You can work on any of these things at any time. But why not let the new year be a reason to start now? If things resonate, give them a whirl. Who knows? You may get more out of you than even you expected. Happy New Year!