This week in Newsletter Club, we enjoyed a round-table discussion about the progress we are making with our New Year's resolutions. We wondered if, like us, other students may be struggling to keep the promises they made to themselves - be it wasting less food, drinking more water, improving your skincare routine or reading before bedtime.

If you've ever set a goal that seemed achievable at first and then struggled to stick with it, you're not alone. In fact, research shows that a whopping 88% of people fail to keep their resolutions by the end of January. But don't worry! It's never too late to start afresh and turn your resolutions into lasting habits.

What Goals Should You Set?

When thinking about your resolutions, it’s important to choose goals that are both achievable and meaningful. Rather than aiming for drastic changes, focus on small, manageable habits that you can make part of your daily routine. For example, you might:

• Boost your confidence: Set aside time each day to write down positive affirmations or goals that encourage self-love and self-empowerment.
• Reduce screen time: Limit the use of electronics, especially before bed. The blue light from phones and tablets can interfere with sleep, so try setting a specific time to power down and unwind with a book or a relaxing activity.
• Practice mindfulness: Do you remember how much fun Cake and Journals was? Why not start journaling regularly, whether it's writing about your day, expressing gratitude, or setting intentions for the future. This habit can help to clear your thoughts and improve your overall wellbeing.

How to Stick to Your Goals

The key to maintaining your resolutions is to turn them into lasting habits. Here are a few strategies that might help:

• Set SMART goals: The SMART framework helps ensure that your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, instead of saying "I will read more," try "I will read for 20 minutes each night before bed."
• Be kind to yourself: Don’t feel guilty if you miss a day or don’t meet your goal perfectly. Even sticking to your resolution a couple of times a week is better than giving up entirely.
• Track your progress: Keep a journal or use apps to track your goals. Whether it’s fitness, reading, or screen time, being able to see your progress can help you to keep going. 

Practical Tips for Success

• Write it down: Studies show that writing down your resolutions increases the chances of success. Keep your goals visible so you can stay focused.
• Use reminders: Set alarms or calendar notifications to prompt you to stay on track. You could also ask someone to hold you accountable.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate milestones along the way, whether it’s after a week of consistent progress or completing a larger goal. A little reward can make the process more enjoyable.

When Resolutions Don’t Work: What Can You Do?

Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go as planned. The key is not to give up completely but to reassess and adjust. Some studies suggest that turning your resolutions into habits is what makes them sustainable. This can take time, so be patient and keep working towards small victories.

If you didn’t make any resolutions this year, it's never too late to start! The New Year is just one moment in time, and the opportunity to make positive changes is always there. Whether it's in January, June, or September, a fresh start is only a decision away.

Apps to Help You Stay on Track

Technology can be a helpful tool for keeping your resolutions on track. Here are a few apps that might make it easier:

• Finch: A self-care pet app that helps you set mindful habits.
• 5-Minute Journal: A quick way to practice gratitude and reflect on your day.
• Flora: A new way to stay off your phone, clear to-do lists, and build positive, life-changing habits. 
• Gratitude Journal: Track things you’re thankful for every day to build a positive mindset.

Reading for Inspiration

Books are a great way to keep you on track with  your resolutions and help you stay motivated. If you’re looking for inspiration, you might enjoy these titles:

• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin
• Don't Stop Me Now! by Vassos Alexander

Our Resolutions

This year, the Newsletter Team is setting a few resolutions of our own. Some of our goals include:

• Cutting down on food waste at home
• Reading for 30 minutes before bed to unwind
• Drinking more water throughout the day
• Eating healthier  - less sweets and more fruit!

We hope you’ll join us in setting achievable goals that contribute to your wellbeing and success this year. Remember, resolutions don’t need to be grand or perfect—just keep going!