This is a big year. Another decade has come to an end, and a new one has begun. It is a time for the world to reflect on the past ten years, rejoice in our successes and start to plan ways to prevent the same problems that occurred. Additionally, it is a time for people all over the globe to decide upon a New Year’s resolution. We say we’ll hit the gym more, drink less soda or eat less carbs, but at the end of the day, do people actually follow through with their yearly goals? 

Resolutions are a quality idea, as they inspire self improvement. However, most come with sacrifices and take willpower to maintain. Though resolutions make one feel better about themselves for a brief time, most don’t last past February. 

“Personally I believe New Year’s resolutions are something that can be very helpful, but only to the people who have the willpower to follow through with the goals they set for themselves,” said Alex Lee ‘20. 

If you think about it, resolutions are just one big trend. Everybody says they’re going to start changing their lifestyle on one day. To me, that sounds like a pretty big deal, and something people need to prepare for. We all know trends die out, and the same thing happens with many resolutions. The way I see it is that if you truly want to change the way you live your life, then why wait until Jan. 1. 

“I think [it’s] so they can procrastinate it and put it off,” said Josie Farwell ‘20, while Lee explained, “Most people tell themselves they will accomplish this big change in their life, but a large percent of people just end up giving up.” 

Yet, there are some who believe resolutions are meaningful. “I think New Year’s resolutions are very very important; it helps you have a goal for the new year and it helps you become a better person,” said Marc Andre Thermitus ‘21. There is no doubt that resolutions come with good intentions, and can typically satisfy those who are following their respective goal. Even if they lose track, they’re still able to feel a bit accomplished entering the new year. 

Resolutions are hard, and accomplishing them comes down to whether an individual truly  wants to change. This means making sacrifices like putting down the game controller, no more ice cream after dinner, or for breakfast, or lunch–Anyways, I personally don’t believe they are worth it, but hey, for those of you who have been maintaining your resolutions, keep on keeping on, and for those of you who failed, well there’s always next year.