New Year’s Resolutions for College Students

Yesterday, we talked about goal-setting for New Year’s Resolutions. Today, we’ll talk about some New Year’s Resolutions you hopefully already have on your agenda, but if not, hopefully you’ll be inspired by these when your classmates are doing the same thing. Here are our top picks for achievable resolutions for college students.

Aim to lose some weight. In November, we told you how to beat the freshman 15. You may be able to beat it now, but if you already packed on some weight, you might have to start slowly. Therefore, don’t aim for the whole 15. Work with an initial 5 pounds. If you feel more motivated, build it up.

Be more financially responsible. You’re on your own now, and Mom and Dad’s credit card may be able to save you if you have one, but you should start learning to be more diligent with your expenses. Get a job if you can and learn to appreciate the value of a dollar. Buy yourself rewards when you deserve it, but don’t overspend.

Spend less time online. Don’t use Facebook and MySpace all day long. If you’re an addict, curtail your time to 30 minutes instead of an hour. Minimize the time you spend on IM. If you’re writing a term paper, shut off the access to the Internet that you don’t need. This will take some discipline.

Have fun in moderation. Like any student, you want to party. Just don’t make partying a routine habit. This is especially important if you drink. Sure, if you’re old enough, you’re allowed to. Just limit yourself to moderate amounts and don’t overdo it.

Attend your classes. You’re no longer forced by your parents to go to class. Does that mean you’ll sleep in and ignore your coursework? Resolve to go to classes and pay attention. At the same time, take good class notes.

Call your parents. Do you see your parents often? Probably not. Call your Mom and Dad if you can. Even phone Grandma once in awhile. They’ll appreciate that you care.

Keep your dorm room clean. Make it more inviting for guests and for yourself. A cleaner room will give peace of mind.

Get more sleep. All nighters are sometimes unavoidable, but don’t make it a habit. You’ll eventually crash and that can be during a critical time in your academic career. Get enough sleep.

Go to the gym. If the college gym is free or at least covered by your tuition, you have no reason to say that you can’t go to the gym. A good fitness routine can make you feel better about yourself in many ways.

Pursue extracurricular activities. College clubs, that is. Join a college group, whether it is a political group or a drama club.

Use protection. If you’re sexually active, make sure that you use protection.

What other resolutions do you have this year?