As we enter the new year in the month of January, many people think about making New Year’s resolutions. But are these promises really helpful, or do they just end up making us feel disappointed?
The main reason people make resolutions is to improve themselves in different areas such as health, career or relationships. However, there is a problem—a lot of resolutions do not last long.
Ms. Campbell, a nurse at Aliso Niguel High School, when asked about her resolutions, shares, “No, I do not have any New Year’s resolutions because I never stick with them. I believe it’s worth making New Year’s resolutions only if you stick with them.”
Ms. Zhou, a teacher at the school, adds her perspective and states, “Yes, my New Year’s resolution is to get grades in[to the gradebook] earlier. It’s worth the first few months that you uphold your New Year’s resolutions.”
From the viewpoint of a student, Ryan Hadiono (10) says, “No, I do not have a New Year’s resolution. I believe that making New Year’s resolutions are not worth it.”
The secret to making resolutions work is to make small, realistic changes. Instead of big goals, it is better to focus on small steps that are doable. It is similar to taking one step at a time on a long journey.
Camden Missaghianardakani (12) also offers their beliefs and shares, “I think New Year’s resolutions are definitely worth making as long as you set achievable and realistic goals. My current resolutions are to fix up my car Margret and to continue making couture clothing. I am very happy with the progress I made last year, so I want to add on to the projects I completed since it’s fun pushing my limits and creating new things.”
Some people believe that the idea of a fresh start in the new year helps them think about their lives and make positive changes. However, seeing that responses vary amongst the school community, upholding New Year’s resolutions can be a challenge for some.
While people’s beliefs over New Year’s resolutions vary from person to person, the collective majority at ANHS seems to have challenges in completing their goals for the year, considering the homestretch this second semester. Starting a New Year’s resolution takes lots of commitment, dedication and consideration for each individual.
Whether New Year’s resolutions are worth making depends on finding a good balance between having dreams and being realistic. As we welcome a new year, it is important to think about resolutions with hopeful but realistic feelings, understanding that meaningful changes happen when we take small, careful steps.
