January is quickly approaching, with many opening Pinterest to create a 2024 mood board and queuing up “New Year’s Day” by Taylor Swift. This time is marked by the hope of new beginnings, but why?
In a world of constantly changing aesthetics, it is so easy to crave reinvention. The world is ever-evolving, but you will always have control over what you are doing. College itself is a time of exploration, dabbling in things you may not have tried before. The New York City experience amplifies this. You can try every obscure or unique fashion trend you can fathom and not a soul will bat an eye. This, however, can hold a deeper and darker narrative, pushing the growing issue of over-consumption. Instead of repurposing items already owned, many turn to repurchasing an entire wardrobe.
Why do we like New Year’s resolutions? The answer is a little less complicated than you may think. It signifies the possibility and the prospect of better horizons. In a time where seasonal (or perhaps just regular) depression is looming over us, self-evolution is an outlet for distraction. With the fall semester over and the spring semester about to begin, it is time to regain control after the hectic closing of the holidays and exam season.
Many vow in January to eat healthier, workout more consistently, journal or many of the other trendy self-help concepts. But realistically how much of this sticks? Goals aren’t set in stone every night and it isn’t realistic to expect a new habit to become a part of your routine immediately. Personally, the more I talk about a habit I want to start, the less likely I am to follow through. My best work is done with myself both as the muse and critic.
As the new year approaches, my advice is this: don’t compare your life to what you see on social media. None of us live the highlights reel you see on Instagram or TikTok. While my Instagram may look like I am constantly out and about smiling, I spend a lot of time stressing about finances and rotting in bed. Push yourself to make goals in private that are not simply to look good on social media by considering what will be most beneficial to your own well-being. I am simply striving to read more books for fun and to explore my gender and self-expression. These goals are low stakes and only benefit me and if I don’t meet them, nothing happens.
As the fall semester closes and the new year enters our thoughts, consider this a time of hope rather than pressure. There is no pressure to become our best selves overnight nor is there a ranking on whose goals are the best. Reflect on what goals might make you feel most at peace in your own skin. If you set a goal and abandon it because it turns out to be unrealistic, nobody will come at your throat about it. Give yourself grace.
