The first week of classes in 2016 are finished, and a daily routine has been established. The campus and gym are buzzing with the return of students. Many eager students are visiting the IWC and swiping their ID’s hoping to attain New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions themselves are a nice way of goal setting, however most resolutions are rather unattainable. This can be partly due to unrealistic expectations. Here are some common resolutions modified to make them easier and manageable.
“Lose 10 lbs. in 2 months” to “Go to the gym three times a week” or “Get 30 minutes of physical activity daily”
I absolutely detest weight loss resolutions and I never make them for myself. These weight loss resolutions are so demeaning and when you step on the scale and don’t see the number you’re looking for, it’s frustrating. It’s easier to quit when you realize what you’re doing isn’t causing pounds to fall off. Well, let’s stop with the weight loss resolutions and modify it to focus on physical activity in general. Exercise has so many positive benefits including an increase in energy, being less stressed and being happier thanks to the release of endorphins. So focus on getting physical activity daily, whether it’s in the IWC or not.
“Save Money” to “Take $50 from every paycheck to put towards savings”
Sometimes resolutions are so broad that they’re hard to fulfill. Saving money is a huge resolution I hear daily. Instead, focus on how much you want to save. Do you want to go somewhere for spring break? Purchase a new digital camera? Take portions of your paychecks to put toward a savings account. That way you can still have a weekly coffee outing without being broke.
“Be Less Stressed” to “Take out 30 minutes daily just for myself”
College is overwhelming – that’s a no brainer. So, focus on taking 30 minutes out of your crazy schedule to do something for yourself. Whether that’s coloring, reading a book or going to a yoga class, these minutes will be beneficial. It’s okay to take time out for yourself because it helps to relax. If you’re not at your best, studying won’t help much. So take a break and relax and then return to studying at the library.
“Eat Healthier” to “Cook a meal twice a week” or “Have a serving of any vegetable every day”
Eating healthier is another very broad resolution because eating healthy has a different definition to everyone. Cooking home meals tend to be less caloric versus going out to eat. So, try and cook a meal with some friends and throw in some broccoli while you’re at it. Stir-fry is an awesome meal to make that’s pretty healthy and tastes amazing.
The key to New Year’s resolutions is to make them specific and attainable. To the gym goers who are striving for physical activity, don’t give up! Physical activity has numerous benefits to the mind and body. I wish all of you luck in completing your newly improved resolutions!
