At the beginning of each year so many students commit to changes and worthy goals to be accomplished in the next 12 months. But, they’re disappointed by the following Dec. 31, when they that achieving those goals is no more attainable than it was on Jan. 1.
The problem with New Year’s resolutions is having the willpower to focus on our goals and not quit after the first month.
An informal poll found that the top three resolutions on FAMU’s campus are to do better in school, lose weight and to get closer to God.
Teresa Jackson, 19 a freshman, computer engineering student from Wewahitchka, wants to improve her grades by studying more instead of going out.
“Determined students develop a schedule of daily/weekly activities as it relates to their classes.
“…Students should prioritize their extracurricular activities,” said Patrick Jones, coordinator in FAMU’s Center for Human Development.
Jones also suggested developing positive study partners who are supportive and committed to actually studying.
“Take the time to write three to five academic, personal, and social goals that you want to accomplish this semester. Post your goals so that you can see them everyday,” he said.
“Finally, be your own motivator and develop an affirmation statement for example ‘[I] can do this because…,’ because your parents/guardian are not here to do it for you.”
Sophomore Tia Hardley, 20, a public relations student from Pensacola wants to lose weight. Hardley plans to keep constantly reminding herself of her goal.
For students aspiring to lose weight, the Web site www.healthtip.ucdavis.edu has some pointers to get your diet started correctly.
The Web site advises you to find a breakfast cereal that you like that is low in fat and high in fiber. Fit in five to nine fruits and vegetables a day.
It further suggest that you prepare low fat snacks ahead of time, such as carrot, celery sticks, tangerines, pretzels and yogurt.
Other recommendations include eating less and altering portions. Dump sodas and drink water or vegetable juices instead. Satisfy a sweet tooth sensibly by having a cookie or a couple of Hershey’s Kisses.
Lastly, get moving and talk to a doctor about a suitable exercise plan.
Some students are trying to become more spiritual.
Soyini Cherry, 18, a freshman general studies student from Sanford, Ill. plans to get closer to God “by ministering to other people and meditating on the word of God.”
The Rev. Gus Spanos, from the First Baptist Church, recommends developing a relationship through God by reading the Bible, attending church regularly and praying daily.
“If you’re not able to attend church regularly students should establish a worship group that involves other students,” Spanos said.
Regardless of what your New Year’s resolution is, the key to keeping it is to stay committed and focused.