This first week back at school is all about things that are “new” – new year, new classes, new seasons of our favorite shows. But an onslaught of everything new, new, new can soon start to feel old. So in the spirit of the new year, this blog post will attempt to do something new. Instead of celebrating all the admittedly great new things that come with 2014, put your year in new perspective by reflecting on the old, as well as the classic experiences that stay relevant year after year.
1. The things we learned: For every new class you’re taking this semester, consider flipping through some old notebooks or course packs from previous classes. Stirring up those memories that have long been put to rest is a useful way to reinforce your learning. The things we learn in university should last longer than a semester, after all. You’ll find future classes easier if you can build on a knowledge base from the previous term – they’re not irrelevant just because they’re old
2. The things we watched: Whether you can’t wait for next week’s “Downton Abbey” or have already downloaded the episodes aired in Britain, you’re probably craving some classic British television. In honour of another bumper year of British TV, let me recommend a classic: “As Time Goes By,” a fantastic BBC 90’s brit-com. Instead of our favorite actress Maggie Smith, substitute the equally phenomenal Dame Judy Dench in the starring role. Compared to “Downtown,” it’s not quite as filled with drama or class commentary, but its premise of long-lost lovers finally reuniting is no less heartwarming (plus, nobody dies!).
3. The things we received: Many of us got nice gifts for the holidays – some new gadgets, cute clothing, or mounds of books and movies. We’ve unwrapped them, bragged about them, and have fully broken them in. But now that you have something new, consider donating something old. Instead of fruitlessly trying to sell your old things for a few dollars on the classifieds or on Facebook, a much more gratifying alternative is simply giving them away. Now is the perfect time to donate some old clothes, phones, or other miscellaneous items to shelters and charities.
4. The people we met: You’re probably going to make some new friends this semester, but don’t forget the old ones. And it’s not just the people from your first year in Rez – why not message one of your old friends from middle school to say hi? You never know when old friends can become new friends again. Make sure you’re keeping in touch with your family too: grandparents, cousins, nieces and nephews are often the people who have been around the longest and stuck by you through all your formative years. It’s always important to show your appreciation by keeping in touch.
5. The things we accomplished: New year’s resolutions – and the speed with which they are abandoned – have become almost banal. Avoid becoming a cliché by really sticking to your resolutions. To stay motivated, make a list of all the times in your life when you’ve made any sort of resolution, promise or commitment, and followed through. Reminding yourself of past success is a powerful way to achieve future success in the new year!
Happy 2014!
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