From the Dean of Curriculum

5 New Year’s Resolutions for High School Students

The end of the year is nearly upon us, and now is a great time to reflect on everything you’ve achieved over the past 12 months. It’s also a good time to think about what you’d like to achieve in 2024; and many of us like to set New Year’s Resolutions.

A New Year’s Resolution is essentially something you want to do differently over the coming 12 months. Think of it almost like setting a goal. What you decide for your New Year’s Resolution is entirely up to you. It could be anything at all, from eating less chocolate, to learning the violin, or running an ultramarathon. It could even be as simple as resolving to be kinder to your siblings.

If you need some inspiration, check out our top 5 New Year’s resolutions for high school students.

“I want to take better care of myself.”

Self-explanatory. Get more sleep, eat more vegetables, try to do some exercise, and be kind to yourself.

Benefits – you’ll just feel better, which is always nice. Plus, when you’re feeling healthy and happy, you’re more likely to do well in all aspects of your life – which in turn will set you up for success post-school.

You can find some great tips on leading a healthy lifestyle here.

“I want to try harder at school.”

Deciding you want to put more effort in is always a great idea. To make your resolution more achievable, being a bit more specific can help – think “I want to stop failing my maths tests” or “I want to achieve above average marks in every subject”.

Benefits – verbally committing to trying harder can be a great incentive. It’ll keep you on track, and give you something to work towards. Plus, hopefully you’ll get better marks.

Need inspiration? Read up about some “famous failures” who refused to give up on their dreams.

“I want to not take on too much.”

You’ve probably heard the phrase “don’t bite off more than you can chew”. This is the same thing.

You’re already studying, and possibly working. You’re probably also playing sport, staying fit, enjoying some extracurriculars, and maintaining a social life. So next year, maybe resolve not to put yourself under too much pressure.

Benefits – you’ll feel happier and less stressed. Trying to do too much at once usually ends in some form of disaster, so look after yourself and learn to say no from time to time.

Here’s an article from the Black Dog Institute about how to deal with burnout (it’s aimed at people in the workforce, but the tips are relevant for anyone).

“I want to try something new each month.”

Trying new things is the way we learn what’s right for us. Now’s your time to try just about everything on offer – and if you don’t like it, you don’t have to make it a long-term commitment. So enrol in new sports, take classes, volunteer, and grab opportunities that come your way.

Benefits – trying new stuff is fun! Just ask any adventurer. And you can build your resume at the same time; don’t forget to add the skills you learned along the way too.

“I want to think positively.”

Banish doubt. It’ll only hold you back. At this stage in life you can do or be almost anything you want if you work hard enough. Yes, you still have to do the work and put in the hours, but thinking positively can change your life. So stop telling yourself you’re not good enough.

Benefits – once again, you’ll just feel better. Don’t forget that while positive thinking alone is a great start, you need to turn that energy into positive action as well. As Tony Robbins says, “You can sit in the garden of your mind telling yourself there are no weeds, but to build a truly fulfilling life, you need to stop covering up the weeds with positive thinking – and pick them instead.”

Start ASAP

Hopefully these New Year’s resolutions for high school students have given you some inspiration. Our top tip? Start thinking about your resolutions as soon as possible. Who knows where you could be in 12 months' time?

Remember, breaking or slipping up on your resolutions doesn’t make you a failure. Use it as a chance to take a step back, see how far you’ve already come, and start fresh tomorrow.

You might like to read other wellbeing tips and tricks to start the new year on the right foot.

Source:

studyworkgrow.com.au

Mrs Alicia Michielsen

Dean of Curriculum 7-12

Head of Learning Enrichment P-12

Careers Advisor