Five. Four. Three. Two. One. Time to make a resolution! As many of us counted down to midnight on New Year’s Eve, we also counted down to the launch of our resolutions.

The new year brings a fresh start, clean slate and new beginning. This is a perfect time to make a promise to yourself to kick that bad habit, exercise more or simply spend more time with your family. No matter what it is, most people continue to make resolutions every year.

“I make a couple of resolutions every year,” said Mark Johnson, a junior at Auburn. “Even if I only keep them for a couple of months, it feels good to start the year off with goals.”

According to usa.gov, the most popular resolutions are lose weight, manage debt, save money, get a better job and get fit. Although these are things that a majority of people strive for, resolutions are not limited. The most important thing about resolutions is that they mean something to you, whether they are common or creative.

“I decided this year to focus on a strict workout plan,” said Johnson. “Even though it may be difficult to stay on track, I’m going to try my hardest.”

There are a couple of problems with resolutions. A majority of people do not keep them even through the month of January. They may also cause a sense of stress and failure when the resolutions are not achieved. Some may feel that there is not enough time to commit to the resolution. Others may not be able to afford things involved with reaching the resolution. For example, gym memberships or personal trainers are expensive. Finances may hold someone back from achieving his goals.

According to womenshealth.gov, there are three simple steps to keeping a new year resolution. First of all, you must be committed. The resolution should be something that you feel passionate about. Secondly, know that there will be set-backs. Plan ahead, and do not get discouraged if you feel like you have failed. Start again the next day. Finally, track your progress. By keeping a journal you can see your success on paper.

“I decided to make a resolution this year to get better grades,” said Haley Andress, a pre-pharmacy major. “I bought an agenda and now write everything down, which seems to be working.”

This year make a resolution to keep your resolutions. Whatever your resolution may be, find the time to incorporate it into your daily schedule. After a couple of weeks it should become a habit.

Resolutions should be realistic and attainable. They are simply goals. You should set check points twice a month to examine your progress. The smaller increments of time make it seem easier to reach rather than facing an entire year. Reward yourself when you reach a check point. This offers incentive during the time in between.


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