January marks the beginning of a new year and a new beginning. To some, this may feel like cleaning your dorm room, apartment, or home, or buying one item you’ve been saving for. For others, it might be a good time to reflect on all you’ve accomplished over the past year. Either way, you have to decide what the next year holds. If you need some ideas for New Year’s habits or practices, we offer a few below.
Take a personal inventory
1. Prioritize all levels of your health. Make it a priority to focus on your physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s critical as we settle into another year of an ongoing pandemic. Resources for your mental and physical health are available on campus. The counseling center offers private and confidential mental health services, and the wellness center offers virtual fitness classes.
2. Switch up your daily routine. The start of the new year is a great time to switch up your routine. It can help encourage more productivity and improve your mood. Try setting your alarm early and use the extra time to go for a quick walk before you start the day, or practice not calling the phone an hour before bed.
3. Practice gratitude. Amid a pandemic, gratitude is something we cling to. It helps refocus attention on positive moments, rather than challenges. Try to make a list of things you are grateful for, such as a sunny day or your pet, at the beginning or end of each day.
4. Give yourself a grace period. Taking a break mentally or emotionally is always good for the soul. 2020 and 2021 were a whirlwind of all kinds. Allow yourself some space to set aside the crowd mentality and let the New Year settle in.
Make a different kind of New Year’s resolutions list
For some, a comforting New Year’s staple is writing a list of resolutions for the coming year. It starts with thinking, moves to accomplishments, and ends with future goals. Here are some ideas for resolutions to start your list.
When I am going through hard times, I will trust that everything will work out.
I will practice letting go of expectations.
I will appreciate the little things.
I will notice how and when my body needs to be recharged.
I would get rid of the idea that caring for myself looks the same as for everyone else.