New Year’s Resolutions for Students
It’s easy to make resolutions but how many are actually kept? According to a recent poll of studentawards.com members, health and fitness are primary concerns while academics are a close second. Here are a few popular student resolutions along with some tips on how to make sure they stick this time.
1) Be more health-conscious
- Be wary of diet fads and trends. Quick fixes do not work as the results tend to last only until the next fad comes along.
- In terms of food, moderation is key. Keep a copy of Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating on your fridge to remind you of the essentials needed to maintain a balanced diet.
- Use the stairs instead of the elevator, take the scenic route to class, and leave the car at home. Little things will add up.
- Take advantage of your university or college gym. Fees tend to be very low or are already built into your school costs. Local community gyms also offer student discounts.
- Also, your family physician can help define routines that would work best for your lifestyle (or direct you to a reliable source).
2) Get the grades you want and become a studious student
- Form a study group with friends. Trade ideas and learn new things from your peers. Studying doesn’t have to be a solo project.
- Losing marks because you can’t get your assignments in on time? Stop procrastinating. Use the motto, “No time like the present” and stop putting off tasks until next week. This way, you’ll avoid those last-minute mistakes and panic attacks.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help and use your resources. If you’re struggling with a concept, ask a teacher, professor, TA, parent, or friend. If you don’t speak up, you may find yourself falling further behind.
3) Money matters, so create a budget
- Create a monthly budget for entertainment, food, toiletries… and stick to it!
- Determine what your needs and wants are (new shoes and a Wii are not needs!). Be realistic about your spending habits and know what your weaknesses are and avoid them.
- Apply for scholarships. Mark deadlines on your calendar and try to set goals for submitting applications. For example, I will submit 3 applications each month.
- Open a high interest savings account and allot a certain amount of money to be contributed each month. You can even lock the account so that funds are easily deposited and difficult to withdraw. Sit back and watch the interest build.
4) Keep your resolutions!
- Instead of making a standard resolution list, flesh out your ideas into measurable goals. For example, go to the gym 2 times a week. Make sure to write down your resolutions and if you’re really keen, keep a checklist to track your progress.
- You will be more likely to stick to a new regime when you can visually see the results.
- Set attainable/realistic goals. If you can’t reach any of the goals you set, you’ll end up frustrated and are more likely to quit.
- Tell your family and friends of your intentions. They will be your support during the rough patches.