A new year brings a list– either mental or written down– of resolutions. For me, it often includes the simple things- to get good grades, to turn in all my homework, and the most common one, to lose a couple pounds. But this year, I plan to take some strides off the beaten path of bland and boring resolutions. I want to take some chances, and work hard to accomplish something I’m truly proud of. I believe you should, too.
The way I see it, we only have one life to live, and we shouldn’t waste one minute of it. We should spend it not worrying about all the little petty things that, in the long run, simply don’t matter. Instead, we should chase those lofty ambitions we have. Have you always wanted to pick up electric guitar? Channel your inner rock star and go for it. Want to overcome that fear of public speaking? Stand up for your opinions, in and outside of class, and never be afraid to speak your mind. With 525,600 minutes in the upcoming year, there’s thousands of ways to make yourself a better, more self-confident individual.
The new year, however, is not only about inner transformations and achievements. Put things into perspective: once you’re long gone, no one will remember the one ‘B’ you got in Pre-Calc, or that you won the 100 meter dash at a certain track meet. No, you will be remembered for what you gave back to the world, and the impact you made in the lives around you. Did you dedicate your time to volunteering to help people in need, or help a friend through a rough time in their life? Opportunities to give back are all around us, every day. If we open our eyes to seek them, we may just live much more fulfilling lives.
Of the many things waiting over the horizon that is the year 2011, college is the most prominent for Southwest seniors. From deciding where to go, what to study, and what you want to become later in life, the decisions made by the class of 2011 during the next year seem critical and life-altering.
Although I am only a junior, I am still feeling the pressure to make decisions, and I feel that I am expected to already have my whole life planned out at 17 years old. This idea scares me, and the majority of upperclassmen, every day.
All I can hope for right now is some guidance and direction from my peers and mentors about my future. Because, in the end, it will matter what I do with my college major, and what I make of myself, more than the exact subject. So seniors and juniors, do not fret. Take a deep breath. Look at the passions you have right now, and the things you see yourself excelling in. Use this as a starting block for your future plans.
The concept of a new year is not to be overlooked. It is a fresh start, a new beginning. Whenever faced with trials and tribulations, what does one normally do? Keep moving forward. Look toward the future; there will always be better times ahead.
This year, vow to do something different. Immerse yourself in something new. Next New Years’ Eve, what will you be proud to say you did; what memories will be the fondest? Now is the time to start those memories.
