As the time approaches to ring in the new year, everyone is buying shoes and new workout apparel in preparation to go to the gym as their new year’s resolution. But what do you do if that resolution doesn’t apply to you? Sometimes your classes take up too much time, you already feel fit enough, and sometimes the gym doesn’t end up working out. That shouldn’t mean that you neglect to have a new year’s resolution. If you love the idea of not going to the gym but have no clue what your resolution should be…here are some ideas:
Use your phone less
I’m not sure about anyone else, but this year I spent way too much time on my phone. In all honesty, it has become an addiction, and I know I’m not the only one. To help with this resolution, there are plenty of apps that count the hours spent on the phone and limit your use. In the end, using your phone less might even help you do better in school!
Be nicer to people
This should be a resolution every year. In fact, it should be a required resolution prerequisite for everyone. Making the resolution to be nicer to people will not only benefit others, it will benefit yourself too. Most of the time, being nice to strangers and friends can really impact their day. Then, in turn, seeing the smile on their face will make you feel better about yourself. This is a great way to literally “be the change you want to see in the world.” If your new year’s resolution is to be nicer to people, you know that you are doing your part in making the world better for everyone.
Eat healthier
You don’t have to plan on going to the gym to simply eat healthier. As a college student, it becomes really simple to go to the nearest fast food chain and buy three dollar junk food meals every day of the week. Instead, this goal can include learning to cook for yourself and feeling better in the process. It may be hard at times to be completely healthy, but it is so worth the health of your mind and body.
Spend less money
This one is self-explanatory and applies to everyone. Access to foods, stores, and online shopping paired with rent, tuition, and books, is a match made by Sallie Mae herself. For many people, spending less money is a serious struggle, but—in the end—it will make you and the bank very happy. This goal will keep you out of debt and excess stress, while also teaching you important financial skills.
Focus on your mental health
Saving the best for last, focusing on your mental health is an extremely important resolution that I highly recommend taking on. If there is one thing you take from this list for next year, it should be this. Too many times, we students overwork ourselves to the point of breaking down multiple times in the semester. This is not okay. This resolution reminds you to acknowledge the problem ahead, take self-care days, de-stress, and get help when you need to. Though mental health is different for every single person, make the goal to find what works for you and focus on taking care of yourself every day.
All in all, regardless of what you choose, it is important to have a new year’s resolution. You should not be forced to make going to the gym a goal if you don’t want to, but you should at least set a goal towards bettering yourself. Remember that a new year’s resolution is more than just a goal, it is a promise to yourself that can greatly improve your overall wellness. So, with the new year coming in, go out there, make a resolution, and have a wonderful new year!