By: Rubee Stillwagon 

As the new year rolls in, resolutions and goals are being made for success. 

Reflecting on the past can show what worked, what didn’t and why. Understanding things that caused challenges and led to success can help set a more realistic goal. 

“I don’t have many new year’s resolutions this year, but I do want to work on my procrastination,” senior Kylie Kolenc said. 

Sometimes breaking goals down into smaller steps can keep people on track. Procrastination can be a leading factor in not completing goals. So, making checkpoints smaller can make it easier to see progress and stay motivated. 

“My new year’s resolution is to stay active and try to work out more to make me stronger for dance,” sophomore Izabella Caruso said. 

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Izabella Caruso is captured mid-leap during a dance competition.

Photo courtesy: Izabella Caruso

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Acknowledging that there might be situations that lead to setbacks is important so there can be a backup plan. Setbacks can be part of the process, so staying resilient and bouncing back is ideal. 

For some people, writing down resolutions and goals so they can be visualized can be beneficial. They can be placed somewhere that is seen every day like a fridge or a desk.  

“I plan to achieve them by maybe having a planner or something along the lines of that to help with deadlines,” Kolenc said. 

For some, staying flexible can keep them more focused on the end goal. Regularly reviewing and adjusting goals can make it more realistic to achieve. 

“I would like to connect more with my family and friends in 2025,” Science Teacher Mrs. Julie Firmstone said. “My motivation is that we never know when we won’t have that chance.” 

Even celebrating the small things can keep motivation up. But other than individual things people do to keep themselves motivated, having a support system can go a long way. 

“My motivation is my mom because she is my number one supporter and my team,” Caruso said. “I also think my dance teacher will help push me to be my best because all she has ever wanted was for her students to dance to their best ability.” 

The people that surround a person can be the thing they need for success. Sometimes the smallest support can make a difference. 

While continuing into 2025, staying motivated and on track is important for most and helps to create a more successful year. 

“A retired teacher told me that it takes 21 days to form a habit, so I try to remind myself to keep up with something, so I am able to create the habit,” Mrs. Firmstone said.