For many, the New Year symbolizes a fresh start and an opportunity to reset goals and dream big. Making New Year’s resolutions is a common practice across America, but living up to them isn’t always easy. According to a recent study, only two-thirds of Americans stick to their resolutions, so we wanted to look at a few resolutions college students can make and stick to as we start the new year.
Soma Jurgensen, School of Business Chair at the Rasmussen College Brooklyn Park campus has four key areas college students should focus on in the New Year.
1. Find a mentor or be a mentor.
Did you know January is National Mentoring Month? It’s the perfect time to find a mentor to help you succeed in college and beyond.
“Try and find a mentor early on in your college career and meet with them regularly,” said Jurgensen. “If you are further along in your college career, consider being a mentor to another student. When you explain something to someone else, you are better able to understand it yourself.”
2. Take care of your body.
Your body is what you use to be successful. Still, college students are not always good about taking care of themselves. This includes sleep, healthy eating and exercise.
“Think small and specific when it comes to resolutions related to your health,” said Jurgensen. “Instead of saying ‘I’m going to exercise more,’ say ‘I’m going to learn how to play Lacrosse’ or ‘I’m going to increase my cardio by 60 minutes a week.’”
Jurgensen says sleep is another doable resolution college students should make a priority. Shut off the T.V., video game or movie just one hour earlier for a big return.
“We often sleep out of desperation; not when we need it,” said Jurgensen. “If you don’t get enough sleep or eat healthy, you’re not going to make the most out of your day or perform at your highest level.
3. Use what you learn in the classroom every day.
Education isn’t just what happens within the walls of a classroom or an online class. Jurgensen says it’s important to use what you learn in the classroom in your everyday life.
“Each night, write down three sentences of what you learned that day and how you used it,” said Jurgensen.
4. Break a bad habit.
We all have them – hapless habits. Maybe you’re a procrastinator or hit the snooze button one (or five) too many times each morning. Here’s your chance to pick one or two of those habits and show them whose boss.
“I’m a procrastinator myself,” said Jurgensen. “It’s not an easy habit to break, but you can plan around it.”
College students can also be guilty of making excuses, especially when they don’t perform in the classroom. Jurgensen says students should take accountability by using the resources available to them, like a tutor or librarian.
“Don’t look at your grade breakdown and ask yourself what you can get away with,” said Jurgensen. “Instead, get the most out of your education by being fully present in the experience.”
Which one of the above resolutions are you going to make for the New Year? Share with us by commenting below.
