The clock strikes twelve o’clock: it is officially January 1st, 2017. Along with greetings of “Happy New Year,” people like to ask what each other’s resolutions for the new year include. While many people view them as a petty list of unrealistic expectations, I personally enjoy making my New Year’s Resolutions because of the refreshing feeling it brings me. As cliche as it may be, a new year really makes me feel like a new me.

When the new year begins, people should take time to reflect on the past year. This is crucial for me in order to reset and start fresh. If one neglects to think about the previous year, then he or she may not receive the closure needed in order to turn over a new leaf. It is important for people to ponder the times that did not work out well so that they can make changes and learn from them in the new year. New Year’s resolutions are all about setting goals for yourself. Ambitions are essential in life; they are the motivation people use to get up every morning and work every day.

However, numerous people claim that you should not have to start a new year in order for change to happen. They perceive the new year as an excuse to have unrealistic aspirations that people never follow through with. Though this may be partly true, I say why not make a New Year’s resolution? Even if you may not follow through with it 100%, at least you took the time to set your priorities straight and realize what is important to you for the new year.

Many students at YLHS agree with the benefits of New Year’s resolutions. Harry Foutris (12) stated, “I partake in New Year’s resolutions because the start of a new year makes me want to change something. This year, I aim to go to the gym four to five times a week.”

The most common New Year’s resolutions people decide to make each year include: losing weight, managing debt, getting a better job, getting fit, eating right, getting a better education, drinking less alcohol, quitting smoking, reducing stress, taking a trip, and volunteering to help others (webmd.com). No matter how common a resolution may be, it is still meaningful because it serves as someone’s own responsibility. I admire the idea that people make personal commitments to improve upon the last year. They are incentives to keep people energetic and attentive about themselves as well as the people around them. Even if only one person makes a New Year’s resolution, it will still be beneficial to that person and to his or her peers. Motivated people influence others to work hard as well; they hold others accountable even if unintentionally.

People have different reasons for making New Year’s resolutions, although most of them are probably similar. Kailyn Case (12) claimed, “I believe in New Year’s resolutions because it allows people to set standards for themselves and become better people individually.” Some people spend hours making long lists of changes they seek to make in the new year, while others simply think for a couple minutes about one thing they want to improve on. The methods people choose are completely subjective – the important part is the rewarding feeling they get from taking the time to think about and care for themselves.

Although New Year’s resolutions are popular with many people, there is a massive group who refuses to partake in resolution-making. They claim it is a waste of time since they are unrealistic and will never come true. Even if you may think that, a little positive thinking can be good for the soul. Lindsey Kitchen (12) explained, “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that you don’t have to wait for a new year to make changes. If at any time you feel your life isn’t where you want it, you can do something about it. However, I still love the feeling of a new year and a fresh start.”

That is exactly it. A new year means resetting your mind and making the decision to do something you want for yourself or for others. Try to reflect upon 2016 and think of at least one goal for this year. Without a doubt, it will prove to be beneficial. I wish you all a hopeful 2017.