New Year’s is a time of self reflection and encouraging change. Too often, however, the things someone might want to change about their lives could be superficial instead of beneficial. Resolutions are personal and based on the specific aspects of each person’s life, making it necessary for someone to come up with one themselves. Sometimes, a resolution can be too broad, or unmanageable, and can leave one with a disappointing feeling of being unable to achieve a goal.
Fitness can often be the first thing people think of when they talk about improving their lives. While one might want to just say their goal is to be healthier, better at their sport, or able to lift more or run faster, the best way to do that is to make a schedule with an allotted time to work out. Whether that’s going to the gym, running laps, or even just taking a walk, committing to a routine will make you continue to push yourself. Maybe this year, a possible resolution could be to run at least a mile every day or to put in extra practice on the weekends, and keeping up a steady schedule will allow you to cross your own metaphorical finish line.
Another common interest of an average resolution-maker is to be “happier.” The simplest way you can lead a fulfilling life is to make time for the things that you already know make you happy, and to explore new things that might do the same. For example, I know that this year I want to dedicate myself to taking a walk with my mom once a week, or indulging in a book rather than scrolling on my phone—both decisions I know will keep me happy in the long run. Lucy Rellosa ‘29 has similar healthy ambitions; she wants to drink more water and stretch every day. Another student Lena Alwine ‘29 has decided to give herself more time to eat breakfast every morning to prevent more hungry school days.
The next thing one might do to improve their 2026 self could be donating to charity or giving back to the community. Charity is an incredibly important thing to put energy towards. The importance of charity, in whatever form it takes, resonates in the positive impact it has on its recipients. I would urge anyone who wants to dedicate themselves to give back to their community this year to do their research and make sure that what they’re doing, or that their donations, get to where it counts.
Additionally, it is important to focus more on your academic career in 2026, especially if you feel unsatisfied or overwhelmed with school right now. To make actual progress and feel better about schoolwork, a good solution could be to form a study group with friends or invest in other ways to get tutoring or advice. LM has a great system with Writing Fellows for any specific writing needs, but seeing a tutor or even talking to a teacher are all great ways to gain the insight and knowledge you might be seeking.
In conclusion, there are endless things you might want to add to your resolution for this coming New Year’s. Anything could be your goal, but sometimes one can’t determine whether what they want is too big or unattainable. My hope is that this advice could help you strengthen your aspirations and look forward to an even better year in 2026!
