Ring in the New (productive, happy, organized) Year with these helpful tips.
So you’ve rung in the New Year, and now, it’s time to get to work on those resolutions. Who could forget the popular quote “New Year, New Me” that surfaces on everyone’s social media page every January? Some of you may already know what you want to accomplish and have a set plan on how to do it. That’s amazing! But for the rest of you, just the idea of going back to classes exhausts you. Well, it’s time to get back into the groove of things and be productive again. Here are some mini resolutions to help you make 2018 your year.
Simplify your wardrobe.
Fun fact: There are stores that will give you money for clothes that you don’t want anymore. And let’s be honest, when was the last time you wore that sweater that your sister gave you 2 years ago? Go through your clothes, separate what you wear and what you know you’ll never wear and see how much money you can get for them. The best part is whatever the store decides they don’t want, you can donate to Goodwill or a shelter. Get your good citizenship badge and help those in need.
Plan ahead.
Yes, I know this isn’t an ideal way to start your year, but it’s so worth it. Think of all the different links and platforms you have to use to check your assignments, all the scrambled emails in your inbox that contain due dates and group project meetings, and who could forget all of Mom’s texts about important dates you need to remember. All it takes is a single sheet of paper to keep your life organized (or if you’re feeling fancy, an actual planner). The point is – save time in the future and be more organized this year.
Declutter your computer.
This one involves digging deep DEEP down into your inner nerd. Most people don’t realize how many unnecessary things live on their laptop until a message pops up saying “storage full.” The majority of it comes from pictures you’ve automatically downloaded from your phone or from last semester’s professor that required your assignments to be typed. Take a trip down memory lane and go through everything, deleting the stuff you know you’ll never need. You’ll free up more space and have plenty of storage for your semester.
Contribute to your community.
This resolution can make a difference in more than just your life. Get more involved by researching local organizations or blood drives in your area to help give back. Start by joining a club or charity that works in the community. You’re bound to find one that fits your interests. Read the newspaper (or Google it) or watch your local news to see what’s out there. From saving lives by donating blood to helping those less fortunate, making a positive impact in your community is a great way to improve everyone’s year!
Re-create your space.
New year, new me, right? The cliché line can actually be helpful when it comes to your surroundings. When was the last time you deep cleaned or re-decorated your apartment? Studies have shown that a relaxing and tidy home improves productivity. Start your new year off right by creating a new theme for your décor or even arranging your furniture in a different way. It’ll help you be more motivated with your new year’s resolutions. And who doesn’t love an IKEA trip?
Don’t see anything on this list for you? Create your own! The point of starting a new year is that you get to leave all the negativity of the previous year behind. Start fresh and small with mini goals you want to accomplish and watch how much you can surprise yourself. Whatever your list entitles, here’s to a happy and prosperous year!
by Cecily Giancaterino