As the new year kicks off, students are often asked questions like: What goals do you hope to achieve? Or, what are some resolutions you have? For some, these are easy questions that don’t require much thought. To others, it’s hard to think of a goal to achieve, especially if you have no plan, are burnt out, or lack ambition.
Resolutions are challenging when, naturally, we want immediate gratification and have an all-or-nothing mindset. Instant rewards become more favorable than long-term benefits, and falling short on a single day can feel like a failure.
Though it’s challenging, results take time and are seen through consistency and persistence. As we begin the new year, let’s take a look at some resolutions students at Guyer have set for themselves.
“My resolutions are: try to get better grades in school, homework be done on time, practice the flute almost every day, and get into more K-pop/musical groups,” freshman Bryna Martin said.
Building on that, junior Jade Gonzales said, “Some of my resolutions were to build a habit of going on a walk every day, and focus on productive study instead of doomscrolling.”
Before setting personal goals, it’s essential to define the word ‘resolution.’
“A resolution is a goal or thing you want to accomplish/do before the new year ends,” said freshman Kelly Sanford. Or as the Cambridge Dictionary puts it, “a promise to yourself to do or not to do something.”
These goals often focus on health, productivity, relationships, or personal growth and are intended to be consistent over time. It’s essential to make your resolutions specific and start with small goals. Instead of resolving to “do better in school,” you’ll be more successful if you define clear actions, such as making sure to study one hour a day.
It’s important to plan for setbacks and focus on progress over perfection. Consistency is what matters, not being flawless! Change is built on persistence.
Intentionality is key to maintaining a proper balance. Whether fully achieved or not, resolutions serve as starting points for long-term growth and reinforce the idea that change is seen in steady progress.
