The start of the school year brings about a sense of potential, as we reflect on the past and dream about the future.
These thoughts turn into goals, which hold power over decisions. Decisions, big and small, develop into habits — patterns that mindlessly direct the ways in which we live. Habits will form whether we want them to or not, simply because day-to-day life is full of decisions. Therefore, creating healthy habits at the beginning of the school year is invaluable.
It all starts with intentional decision-making. From hitting snooze or not, to making a meal, to spending our free time, we humans — even more as college students — are always choosing how to direct our lives. Recognizing that agency is an important step in harnessing it for your wellbeing.
Deliberation cannot be underemphasized. Take five minutes to think through your day before you step out the door. Think about where you want to be by the end of the semester, and think about how to get there. What kind of person do you want to be? What do you want to include in your life?
You will always be disappointed when your goals are not clear, so step one is thinking. Be intentional to observe and define your desires.
Step two is setting realistic goals. You are most likely not going to be a CEO by twenty, but you could have lunch with one and take classes that put you on track to become one. Figure out what you can do here and now, and then implement those practices.
If you have a desire to work out, set a realistic goal to run or go to the rec center three or four times a week. If you want to make friends in college, set a goal to introduce yourself to classmates or go to events where you can meet like-minded people.
By setting periodic, reachable goals, your sense of accomplishment will motivate you. Habits are all about momentum, so it’s better to complete multiple, small goals than set a gigantic, unreachable one.
This brings us to step three: continue to reevaluate throughout your timeline.
Good intentions are just that — merely intentions. Action matters most, and persistence is key. Remind yourself of your goals, lest they fade. Even if you have to put reminders in your phone or put sticky notes everywhere, we all need accountability.
Sometimes accountability partners really work for people. They create a sense of connection that can be motivational and encouraging. Others find it more fulfilling to go it on their own. Know yourself and set yourself up for success.
As you embark on this new school year journey, remember these three steps — decision-making, goal-setting, and reevaluation. In addition, remember what you have control over and what you don’t. Sometimes we don’t have complete control over our habits.
Things always happen to us: circumstances, reactions, relationships or schedules. Creating healthy habits is all about staying intentional with what is around you.
Be observant and take some time to create healthy habits to walk in this school year. Yes, it takes more effort than just going with the flow, but in the end, it will make your life more fulfilling and satisfying.
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Sami Grace Donnelly, junior in English literature, began writing for the Plainsman in the Fall of 2021. She has served as a columnist, the Opinion Editor and is now a writer abroad during her exchange program in Spain.
