Reigning in the new year means one thing: life-changing resolutions. Many strive for a better body, an unlikely personality change, or perhaps something more generic, such as “exercise more.” But I choose the rational route to resolutions. After several years of failure to realize most of my previous, more ostentatious goals—three years ago, I made it one of my resolutions to be fluent in Japanese within a one-year time frame—I have come to the conclusion that one should follow strict principles in creating resolutions. These principles can be summed up in the word “CAT”: C-commitment, choose resolutions you know you can be committed to; A-ambitious, do not be afraid to go big with your resolutions, but know your limitations; T-timely, make sure that your resolution can be achieved in a timely manner.
With these tips in mind, I have created my resolutions of 2014. I resolve to:
1. Quit Netflix– Over this winter holiday, I have realized the dangers of this magnificent, yet addictive website. Netflix—more specifically, my new-found Suits obsession—has curated an addiction that a high-school student should not be involved with. Goodbye Netflix.
2. Get over Leonardo DiCaprio– My ardent fascination DiCaprio has stemmed from years of reveling in his illustrious films and gawking at his efforts to conserve the environment. It has been to the dismay—or laughter—of my fellow peers, whenever I give an unconcealed squeal every time this distinguishable actor appears on screen or is just mentioned in my presence. But it is for whatever is left of my pride, that I must learn to slowly alleviate my obsession respectable love for this remarkable being. This time around, I think I will have to let go, Jack.
3. Not use my cellphone to avoid awkward eye contact with people– Everyone can empathize with me, in this new age, where we stifle conversation with others by pulling out our cellphones. Most of the time, we happen to be playing a game of Candy Crush or just scrolling through old messages to make people think that we have a definite sense of popularity and that we have indeed not been neglected by our friends. But—logically speaking—it may be beneficial to start up conversations with those around you and not pretend to be distracted by some “dire” situation on your cellphone. Who cares about being popular, when we can make actual friends.
Reviewing my resolutions, it seems that I have neglected the fundamental principle of creating resolutions; have some fun with it.
