CASS DA RE
<Features Editor>
Coming back to school after a luxurious and lackadaisical break can be both dreadful and desirable. While one dreads the return of stress and overbearing schedules, one may also welcome the reintroduction of student camaraderie and company.
A common question upon one’s return is “What are your new year’s resolutions?” A common response is: “I don’t believe in resolutions.”
It is an answer that always strikes me as odd. How can one not believe in resolutions? Dear non-believer, I ask you, do you not believe in resolutions on philosophical or existentialist grounds? Do you not believe in being resolute, in making firm decisions, or solving problems through decided terms of action? Or do you not believe in change and people’s ability to do so? If any of the above, I must resolve to disagree.
A resolution is the product of a solution-oriented analysis. It is not an imagined notion plucked from the pine tree and cranberry-scented air of the holiday season. A resolution requires forethought, introspective examination, and firm intention and resolve. It is not a haphazard and willy-nilly idea born of too much bubbly and Bellinis. A resolution is a noun, a thing, and a result. It does not beg the question of belief, but begs for action. It is something to be followed, carried out, abided by, or enacted.
In conclusion, my response to the non-believer is that one ought to move away from liberally throwing around convictions of belief, and move down into the grounds of action in this new year. Maybe, by resolving to act, and in fact believing in one’s ability to do so, you will find yourself a believer in resolutions, and as a result, a little happier.
Having said that, I don’t believe most people are actually resolute in their resolution-making. Resolutions are akin to any life development goal. People find strength in starting new projects at the beginning: in the morning, on Mondays, on the first of the month, and of course, on the first of the year. The mark of a new year represents a fresh start for many; however, whether life is any different on December 31st or January 1st is a matter of personal perspective, preference, and position.
I recognize that there are many well-intentioned people with good intentions. These people make resolutions such as “lose weight,” “be nice,” and “work harder.” While these are laudable and logical goals, they lack substance, content, and clarity. Let me clarify: I do not believe that these resolutions will solve anything.
Like any kind of goal setting, resolutions must be specific, clear, attainable, and be supported by a timeline or plan. Abstract and lofty resolutions are almost impossible to follow through on. Instead, set actionable and concrete goals that are measurable. For example, instead of “be nice,” resolve to open the door for at least one person everyday. Unless you are a hermit, in which case you don’t have door-related or any other type of contact with people. Nevertheless, develop a resolution that fits your existing lifestyle and is achievable through small modifications. Resolutions, like goals, take work and dedication. Dedicating a miniscule amount of time to a task every day will make a big difference, a difference that is long lasting and sustainable.
Next, write your goal down. Write it in your agenda, on a post-it, in a journal, on your desktop notes, in the sand of your zen garden, or through any other record keeping system. Not only will the act of writing help you remember your goal, it will also create a visible reminder to keep you accountable.
In the same line, constantly revisit and review your resolution. In doing so, be honest and keep yourself accountable. Sharing a resolution with a friend, significant other, or a group will also aid in ensuring you follow through on your promises.
It is difficult to accept change; it is even more difficult to create change. But change is a necessary and healthy part of human growth and development. Moreover, it is vital to increasing one’s happiness. Take advantage of the new year to fix, amend, resolve, better, ameliorate, or initiate some aspect of your life. It’s still early and there is still time to make clear, specific, and measurable resolutions for a happier you and a happier new year.