Around this time of the year, many people are looking back on the past months of 2016 and preparing for 2017. Some make a promise to do acts of self-improvement for the start of the New Year, this is called a New Year’s resolution. To kick start your goals for 2017, we’ve listed some smart goal suggestions aimed toward students.

New Year’s Resolutions: Ideas for Students

 1. Stay Focused.

This broad statement can be applied to all aspects of a student’s life. Focus on academic achievements, focus on new skills, or focus on self-improvement. Obstacles and distractions occur naturally, especially with busy schedules. Keeping focused will minimize obstacles and make it easier to maneuver through them to achieve additional goals.

2. Stop Procrastinating.

Procrastination can be a major pitfall for anyone but especially students. And even though students are encouraged throughout their academic career to start assignments early to avoid rushing near the deadline, few students take this advice. The resulting cramming can cause frustration, stress, and even anxiety.

If there is any task that needs to be done, do not delay whether at school or at home. The earlier you start a task the more time you have to improve and the less-stressful the work will be.

3. Manage Time by Planning Ahead.

Students are very busy with various activities; therefore, it seems like there’s never enough time in a day. Even without procrastinating, you might feel like you’re always playing catch-up. What you need to remember is that everyone gets 24 hours in a day. The way you use this time is what is important.

To better manage your time, use a calendar or planner. Set aside time before the start of a new week to plan ahead activities and due dates. You can even set aside time to relax and have fun!

4. Learn a New Skill.

Pick something that interests you – in or outside of academics. If you get logic-overload at school, challenge your creative side. For example, learning how to play an instrument is fun and can help your brain grow. Even something less time consuming like learning how to cook a dish with your parents can be fun and teach valuable life skills.

5. Help Others.

Self-improvement is important, but students shouldn’t forget to assist others. Helping others is beneficial to all parties involved. For example, if you excel in a specific subject at school, and a friend is struggling, taking some time to study with your friend could help your friend improve his or her grade. This will sharpen your skillset, as well. Outside of school, you could even opt to help your parents with things around the house.

6. Get Physical.

Students spend most of their time in the classroom. Outside of the classroom, look for activities that requires physical movement. This could be something as simple as cleaning your room. Some students go the extra mile (literally!) by downloading a free app on their cell phones that allows them to track all physical activity and set goals for the week. You could also try dance classes or join a sports club!

7. Stick to Your Goals.

While it can be tough to stick with each New Year’s resolution, it’s possible if you make your goal list attainable. Start small with short-term goals you want to accomplish within the next three months to six months. As you achieve your goals, check them off your list and celebrate your accomplishments before moving on. Even a little celebration can provide the motivation you need to tackle the next resolution.

These are just few suggestions to help start New Year’s resolutions for students. Take the time pick out a couple that are the most beneficial to meet your goals as a student in the New Year. Also, do not hesitate to add goals that relate to you personally. Let’s start 2017 off strong!

Author: Shawnesia Pegues, Academy Assistant at A Grade Ahead