We’ve all made New Year’s resolutions: read more books and watch less TV, exercise more and sit down less, cook more at home and order takeout less. Some resolutions we break, but the ones we keep can improve our lives, and at the end of the year, it enables us to look back with a feeling of accomplishment and pride.
For students, making and keeping resolutions can go a long way toward achieving success in the classroom. New Year’s Day is right around the halfway point of the school year, so it’s a great time to set positive goals, eliminate bad habits, and improve overall.
Here are a few ideas for resolutions to continue growing and evolving on your academic path.
1. Overcome Procrastination
With the constant distractions of friends, social media, TV shows, and video games, it can be easy to find your motivation to do schoolwork decreasing. Along with distractions, procrastination can also be caused by anxiety and decision fatigue (when you’re faced with constant decisions, you start to put some off).
There are ways to combat this! For example, you can:
- Divide large assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks
- Work with a friend or study partner to make studying more fun and give you some accountability
- Eliminate distractions (unplug!)
- Prioritize your work, getting the more difficult work done first so that what comes after feels more manageable
- Reward yourself. Give yourself something to look forward to after completing an assignment, like watching your favourite show or having your favourite snack
2. Create a Study Routine
Not every assignment has to be completed at the last minute. Creating a routine where you can schedule time each day to study or work on assignments can significantly reduce school stress. Imagine taking 20 minutes a day to review for an upcoming test instead of three pressure-fueled hours the night before.
Creating a good study routine also includes creating a good study space. Decluttering your desk and setting up a relaxing area where you have everything you need to get work done and focus can help to motivate you to spend time each day doing schoolwork.
3. Become a Better Student
Being a good student isn’t just about having good marks. It’s also participating in class, making friends, assisting classmates who might need help in a subject you’re good at, and asking your teacher how they think you can improve.
The more you are involved in class, the more you want to learn and succeed. Outside of the classroom, there are also ways to get involved in the school community, such as joining a club, volunteering, or trying out for a sports team or play. This can make you feel more engaged and supported.
4. Learn Something New
Whether learning a new instrument, becoming an expert on plants and animals, or learning how to code, learning something new is always fun and exciting. Passion and curiosity can take you to some fantastic new places and be great motivation for learning. You might even find a new hobby or pastime that you’ll enjoy for the rest of your life!
5. Ask For Help
Asking for help can sometimes be tricky, but often you’ll find that having the support of someone can go a long way in helping you succeed. Whenever you feel like you are struggling or stuck with something, know that teachers, parents, tutors, friends, mentors, and counselors are there to help you get on the right track. Taking care of yourself is crucial to achieving success as a student, and there are people around you who are always ready to offer guidance and support.
Remember, your resolutions don’t have to be big. Setting and keeping small resolutions can be a rewarding experience. Whether they are big or small, we wish you good luck in 2023!