By Maryam Sheikh

Now in 2020, you might be wondering- how do I make the most of this year? What types of goals and resolutions should I set for myself? Moreover, how can I make sure that I stick to my goals? In this article, I’ll share some resolution ideas as well as how to make sure that by the time December rolls around, you are happy with the progress you have made on your goals.

First, it is important to think about what types of goals matter the most to you. There is an infinite amount of ways to grow as a person through setting and achieving goals, so it is up to you to define what means the most to you. Here are some examples to help you get started.

1. Your health: This year, focus on forming healthy habits. Work with your family to come up with balanced, healthy, and yummy meal options. To search out healthy alternatives to junk food, go grocery shopping with your parents and explore your options. Each week, research online and incorporate a new vegetable or fruit into your meals. Set aside one night a week for a family food night. The possibilities are endless!
2. Read! Grab your friends and make a trip to your local library. Set a reading goal for yourself; for example, try to read one book a month. Check out new releases or old time favourites and form a book club with your friends and family. To keep track of your reading, log in a book diary and rate your reads. This is a sure way to learn new things, increase your vocabulary, and have fun!
3. Screen time: Take some time this year to unplug! While playing video games, watching TV, and chatting online might be fun, it is important to create a healthy balance and monitor your technology use. Set aside an hour or two per day for your screen time and use your other spare time to find new hobbies. Play board games, learn a new sport, start baking, or spend time with family and friends.
4. Community service: In 2020, focus on growing your character. Practice kind actions in your household, at school, and with your friends. If you see bullying happening around you, step up and help others in need. Speak to your parents about volunteering at a local animal shelter, cleaning up trash at a park, or volunteering at a soup kitchen. There are many ways to get involved in your community!

Try setting your goals with friends or family so that you can keep yourself and others motivated. If you fall off track, dust yourself off and keep moving in the right direction. If it helps, create logs or journals to reflect at the end of your days or weeks. I hope that by the end of the year, you are happy with the new habits you have formed. Wishing you a happy and successful new year!