After a challenging 2020, a new year has finally arrived. Now that the COVID vaccine is being distributed, we can all only hope life starts getting somewhat normal again in 2021. Since a brand new year is now ahead of us, many resolutions and goals may come to mind. When making a resolution or goal for the new year, we must make a realistic and achievable one. One resolution we can all apply this year after a turbulent 2020 is to enjoy the little gifts in life, such as simply breathing and being healthy. Although times have changed, it’s still a tradition to make resolutions and view each new year as a fresh start and an opportunity to better oneself. This year, it’s certainly time to put ourselves first.

Several University of Miami students had a lot to say about their resolutions for 2021. Christopher Salomon, a senior creative advertising major, said his resolutions include doing more photography and design while also maintaining the drive to graduate. He mentioned that he also wants to work out more, save money and cook more. So far, Salomon has achieved his goals by getting up early (between 5 and 6:30 a.m.) to do a 30 or 45-minute workout. As for his design and photography ambitions, he discussed how his spring classes are currently pushing him to improve in these areas. Another aspect of Salomon’s life that has encouraged him to go for his goals is a positive support group. Some of his friends have been keeping him accountable for working out, design, photography and saving money by setting up a budget. 

Salomon said he believes new year’s resolutions are a way “to tell ourselves to stay motivated.” He acknowledged that many people don’t stick to their resolutions nowadays because people dream of instant results and gratification, but setting goals is also part of trusting the process because success doesn’t happen overnight. “My motto for 2021 is: If it doesn’t serve you, it doesn’t deserve you,” he said. “Trust the process and the journey.”

2020 was a challenging year due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. When our loved ones were personally impacted by the illness, we sometimes found ourselves struggling with no way to help. Sasa Ama Dyese Middleton, a junior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry, shared that her new year’s resolution is to “make this year count and enjoy the time I have with the people I love.”

Middleton bravely opened up about how COVID-19 has affected her personally because she lost many close friends and family to the virus. This taught her not to take life and her loved ones for granted. Going forward, she wants to make an extra effort to hold onto happy moments. Middleton will achieve her resolutions by remembering those she has lost and walking lighter in her everyday life. To her, new year’s resolutions are all about new beginnings. “Life is all about perspective. Challenging events come and go all the time, but it’s your reaction to them that matters most.”

Stephanie Mac, a senior creative advertising major, said her top new year’s resolutions are to travel more, make art and spend less time on her phone. She plans to accomplish her goals by working on them day by day and reminding herself daily of their long-term benefits. New year’s resolutions are important to Stephanie because “they’re a chance to reflect on your goals and start the new year off right.”

Paloma Alvarez, a senior majoring in public relations and minoring in sports administration, said her main goal for 2021 is to focus on herself and her needs by relaxing more and going to bed earlier. Like Mac, she strives to accomplish her goals by preparing ahead and taking time out of each day to focus on the benefits. Alvarez explained how new year’s resolutions are useful to her and productive, as long as one doesn’t put too much pressure on themselves and fall into anxiety.

Jasmine Page, a junior advertising major, said her 2021 resolutions are to continue being fit, spend more quality time with herself and grow spiritually. Page plans on actively motivating herself to accomplish these goals, whether it be by rewarding herself or simply holding herself accountable. “Either way, I’m not too strict with myself. Showing yourself grace is imperative,” Page said. “The best part is, if it becomes a part of your lifestyle, it won’t feel like a fad. It will just become a habit and feel normal.” Page said she personally thinks new year’s resolutions aren’t that effective unless it’s something one truly desires and wants to see in life. She said that if someone really wants to seek an ambition, they shouldn’t be forced to wait until New Year’s Day to get it done.

Thinking about what we wish to do each year is not just about setting goals but also making long-lasting lifestyles changes. Keep in mind that it takes a lot of hard work and time to fulfill a year-long resolution or goal, so don’t burn out and always remember to enjoy life and have fun. Trust the process and, more importantly, learn to fall in love with the process. Especially during trying times like the present, we must be extra gentle with ourselves and each other. Keep on staying safe, ‘Canes, and have a fantastic 2021!

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