Not only that, but since so many people look at the new year as a chance to start fresh, there are a whole lot of people striving to complete their goals—all at the same time—and that can be pretty inspiring. So, no matter what you choose to pursue in the New Year, it’s a good idea to latch onto the support and excitement from friends and roommates to help keep you disciplined and connected to your goal.
If you’re having trouble choosing a goal or two for the New Year, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of ideas—maybe you’ll find your next resolution here!
1. Eat healthier
Perhaps one of the more popular options for New Year’s resolutions, eating healthier can be a great way to kick off the new year. Eating healthy can take a lot of determination—especially if you’re one that is naturally drawn to all the sweet and salty delights that processed food has to offer. There are tons of programs and plans you can connect with if you feel like you need a little extra structure and accountability. Grab a friend, and do it with someone if you’re feeling like you’ll need some encouragement—accomplishing resolutions that involve changing your diet can be tricky to stick to and having a roommate or buddy do it with you can make all the difference.
2. Exercise regularly
Another common option that many people choose as their goal for the new year: more exercise! Bodies love and need to move—in fact, we were created to move. However, it can be really tough to find space in your busy schedule (especially at school) to work in some exercise. If you live in a colder climate, it can be doubly difficult to find space indoors to move. Take advantage of your college’s fitness center or walk around the walking track in the gym. Join a broomball league or go for snowy hikes with friends. Whatever it is, try and commit to doing something a few days a week so your exercise is actually regular.
3. Technology fast
As time goes on, more and more people are realizing the detrimental effects that so much time on social media and surfing the internet can have on one’s emotional and mental health. Committing to limiting your time online or taking a break from it altogether in the new year can do a lot to reset your focus and intentions. There are a lot of apps out there now that can track your time on social media and can then turn it off after a certain amount of time. If you’re really having trouble, try giving your passwords to a trusted friend who can change them and make sure you really don’t have access until you’re ready.
4. Time with the Lord
It’s so easy to skip devotional time with God. Homework, fun times with friends, late-night studying, and a whole host of other things can easily get in the way. If you’re looking for a resolution, a great one is setting aside some intentional time to spend with the Lord. Try getting up ten minutes early, curling up with a mug of warm coffee by the window and journaling out your prayers. Or take some time to sit in a quiet study room in your dorm before bedtime to read from the Bible and connect with Jesus. The more intentional you are about connecting with Christ each day, the more quickly it will become a habit.
5. Financial goals
Lots of people like to make spending and savings goals in the new year. Consider ways you might cut down on unnecessary spending and move that money to savings accounts instead.
6. Simplicity
Try paring down your belongings. The capsule wardrobe is a huge hit right now, and minimalism has never been so widespread. Consider a goal that helps you get rid of the things you don’t really need. You could try getting rid of one thing away each day or even giving something of yours to someone every day. What a sweet way to reuse things that otherwise might have gone to waste eventually.