Happy 2017, everyone! Although I’m a little behind in posting this month, I do hope you all had a wonderful holiday and restful break (and for those of you who just returned from break, we are jealous)! I don’t know about anyone else out there, but I still find it hard to believe it is a new year already. Where did 2016 go? Ideally, the weeks off not only provided a chance to relax, but also a chance to reflect and process through the achievements and challenges the past year gave you. Hopefully, your successes and positives outweighed the negatives but, if not, you wonderfully have the opportunity for a fresh start.
While events from the previous 12 months vary and affect us differently, one thing I am pretty certain never changes and is felt this time of year is the excitement that a new beginning brings. Anticipation for a clean slate comes to the forefront with the start of January, along with the determination to make and achieve new goals (depending on how serious you get)…and the only thing that is really changing is the last digit of the year! Why does this matter? Because this excitement is different; it is unbridled and full of optimism for the future.
Speaking of optimism, I find this time of year that my positivity is at an all-time high (also, a dose of Vitamin D helps for those not in sunny areas). Not to be cliché, but I have a few resolutions myself. Although they are personal, it is comforting to know that those around me also identify with a fresh start and new perspective to get the “goal-ball” rolling. Recently, a co-worker and I were chatting about the timeliness of this invigorating topic, and we found a few key reasons why the positivity of possibilities is a no-brainer as you enter into anything new: be it the real world, a job, or a new year.
- The ability to change is palpable.
As someone who finds it challenging to change, the spirit of the new year is an overwhelming sensation coupled with a community of people experiencing it with you. We are motivated, inspired, passionate, recharged and ready to conquer the world!
- Resolutions abound.
At the top of everyone’s mind (I see you, January gym-goers), resolutions are a hot topic among many conversations. It’s easy to stay motivated when you are frequently reminded of your goals, but if you aren’t comfortable chatting about them, hang a few inspirational quotes around places you often are. Reminders are key!
- Friendships are rekindled with the beginning of a new semester.
Enough said. Keep your friends close as you don’t have time for negative people in your life. Cling to the people who love you most, enjoy your time at college and do your thing.
- Planning for adventures is always fun—whether it’s an exotic spring break or a to-do list of local spots to discover!
Get on that, NOW. Trust me, it will be worth it. The hardest thing to do is bite the bullet and buy the plane ticket.
A (very wise) Saint Vincent College professor once told me, “Don’t define something by what it isn’t. Define it by what it is.” If 2016 wasn’t “your year” and didn’t bring you everything you hoped and dreamed, you have the opportunity to change that right now. Your time is limited in every circumstance, so cherish every second. Enjoy the wonderful memories you have with the special people you get to call friends, and stop focusing on the fact that it is going to end. You get to be here, now.
I wish for you a new year of endless possibilities — even better ones than you can imagine. The above advice I received has changed my thinking immensely, and I am so thankful that those words were shared with me. Hold fast to the positivity that more time brings, and of course, absolutely relish your time in college.
Inspiring quotes are AWESOME.