By: Detra Brown
At the start of each new year, people plan their New Year’s resolutions. The premise behind the resolutions is the notion that people endeavor to do something different to improve their lives from the previous year. While many people make fun of those New Year’s resolutions, there’s something to be said about planning. Someone once said, “if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.” Here are seven resolutions for future college students.
- Pace yourself – In college, you’re exposed to many things. This may be your first encounter with freedom. There’s no one telling you to get up for class, do your homework, or don’t go out on a school night. Remember that your freedom comes with responsibilities and expectations. No one is saying don’t have fun but do so responsibly. Pace yourself.
- Be a leader – New horizons await you and it’s time to define yourself. Don’t allow others to minimize what you have to offer. Determine to set your own course and be your best. Many will give their opinions on what the best is. However, you designate who you are and the type of leader you want to be.
- Try something new –Yes, you have new classes, but this refers to the new “you”. This is about taking the opportunity to reach outside of your comfort zone to try something new. If you normally arrive to class late, try arriving on time. If you don’t complete your assignment, try submitting complete work on time. Create the success you desire.
- Start volunteering. Giving back to others is a way to stay ground and remain humble. When you help others, you begin to understand that your situation isn’t as bad as you thought it was. Many organizations that accept volunteers don’t possess unlimited resources to meet the needs of those they serve so your contribution is invaluable to them.
- Meet new people. Be willing to expand your circle. Remember you’re the center of your circle, which should include people you encourage and mentor and those who do the same for you. Having a diverse group around guarantees the opportunity to share experiences. This relationship building exercise allows you to learn from new people. Learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom but also in community.
- Be patient. Your loved ones may need time to see you as a growing adult. That’s okay. Have patience with them as they adjust to your growth and development. One thing you will want to keep in mind is that people can’t see you differently if you have the same immature and reckless behaviors. If this is you, remember tip number 3 and try something new.
- Rest. Yes, college and all its new experiences are often more than the mind can fathom. After the studying and attending the occasional party, take the time to rest. You will need rest to handle the work ahead. This time of relaxation allows for the mind and body to rejuvenate and begin again. The lack of sleep creates problems that you don’t on this college journey.
The tips reflect a variety of possibilities and aren’t limited to one area. The reasoning is that college is a time for you to continue your growth journey and learn ‘who you are’. This process will come with much trial and error. Hang in there and don’t give up. Despite the challenges, success is yours if you don’t quit.
