The events of the past year dim as the radiating hope of a new year reflects off of the disco ball in the sky. 5…4…3…2…1… and suddenly the world is reborn. Or is it?
The new year is certainly a great time for self-improvement. It allows us to reflect on the past year to see where we could improve in the future. Yet, the first step to improving yourself is accepting that you will not be a new person at midnight on January 1st. Self-improvement takes effort, endurance, and commitment.
Most people put in the effort, endurance, and commitment into their resolutions and then eventually give up. This is largely due to the fact that the resolution was not attainable to begin with. In order to successfully achieve your goals, make sure they’re feasible.
- Being Kinder to Yourself and Others
-
Being kinder to yourself and others is a great way to make your life more positive. It can be as simple as devoting time to reading your favorite book, watching your favorite show, or forgiving your mistakes. You can be kind to others by giving a compliment to your friends and family or helping them through an issue. Being kinder opens your heart to yourself and those around you, making you more connected with your own emotions and with your community.
- Being More Organized
-
Being more organized will make life more productive and efficient. An easy way to keep up with this task is to keep a notebook full of daily to-do lists. Start by listing things you already do in a day (such as walking your dog or watering the plants) and slowly add on daily goals. Crossing off items you already do helps you feel capable to take on the more challenging goals.
- Getting More Sleep
-
I’m sure I am not the first to tell you that sleep is so important. Sleep helps to clear your mind from the clutter of confusion and improve your overall health. Prioritizing sleep is a matter of scheduling. If you designate a time to be in bed in order to get eight hours, you will be more likely to stick to it. Accept that there will be days where sleep will become a second priority (such as during finals), but make the commitment to attempt to follow a healthy sleep schedule on a normal basis. Once you accept that there will be times that you will not be getting the appropriate amount of sleep, it will motivate you to get the right amount of sleep on days when you can.
- Getting Involved in Your Community
-
Getting involved in your community is immensely important. Helping those in your community helps you feel more connected to your surroundings and makes the world less intense knowing there are wonderful people around you. Devote at least one day a month to doing something to help your community. It can be a donation, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or helping someone out.
- Going Outside of Your Comfort Zone
-
I would say out of the resolutions I have provided thus far, this one is the most fun. Going outside of your comfort zone is a thrilling adventure that has endless possibilities. For instance, you could try a new makeup look to feel bold in your awesome looks. You could also visit a new place you have never been before. Going outside of your comfort zone is a challenge. It can be scary at first, but challenges are the things that help us grow as humans, which is what a new year is all about.
Happy New Year! I hope you bring in the new decade with lots of self-improvement and happiness!
Want to keep up with HCBU? Make sure to like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, check out our Pinterest board, and read our latest Tweets!