Optimistic outlook for the new year

New Year’s has always been one of my favorite holidays. The clock changes to the start of another year, so many people find motivation that wasn’t there before.  

Although I love Christmas and Thanksgiving, New Year’s is the only holiday that keeps on giving. This is because my New Year’s resolutions are something I strive to carry with me from January to December. 

The older I have gotten, the more and more I appreciate the new year. Life can get so monotonous, and the new year breaks up that routine and gives light to beginnings.  

As a human, I can be hard on myself and beat myself up over failures, which isn’t productive. The new year allows me to forget the past and move forwards towards a year that is bound to have excitement in store.  

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘New Year’s resolution’ as “a promise to do something differently in the new year.” So, in short, people are making promises to themselves in the new year. 

Social media has given light to some popular New Year’s resolutions that include working out, eating healthier, or more self-care in general. I noticed the New Year’s resolution of going to the gym in my personal life. I braved going to Planet Fitness on New Year’s Day, and the parking lot was packed full as well as the gym itself.  

Along with the infamous New Year’s resolutions of working out and eating healthier, resolutions dealing with personal interests and goals are also important to one’s growth. In contrast, some students have a different outlook on resolutions and believe it can hinder their growth. 

Personally, 2022 was a year of growth in myself; I finished my freshman year of college, became a journalist for The Chanticleer, and made some great memories.  

Despite my accomplishments, there were low moments. Schoolwork got hard at times and my personal life got the best of me.  

I have a positive outlook for this year and some goals I would love to accomplish. Some of my resolutions are to continue to write, shop more sustainability, and take care of my physical and mental well-being. Cheers to 2023!