Monday, January 6, 2020 7 New Year’s resolutions to help you feel happier
While focusing on your fitness can be an important resolution that supports your emotional, physical and spiritual well-being, it is also important to explore other dimensions of well-being as you seek a balanced life. Consider adopting one of these resolutions that may help you feel happier with your life.
#1 | Get More Sleep
You know that great feeling the morning after a night of good sleep – studies show it can make your feel happier! While it can be easy to postpone sleep due to homework, socializing, and Netflix-binges, catching enough Z’s is essential for your health and emotions. Aim to sleep at least 7 to 9 hours each night. You can even create a set sleep schedule to make sure you’re staying on target and set your phone to give reminders that it’s almost bedtime.
#2 | Give Back
Finding a way to serve others helps you feel fulfilled and part of the community. Check out the Center for Civic Engagement’s GivePulse website to search through local volunteer opportunities and connect with a variety of nonprofits in Lincoln. From projects like picking up litter or running a girl scout troop to helping at a food pantry, you’ll make a difference and affect lives outside your own.
#3 | Digital Detox
Detaching from screens can inspire fresh ideas, bring perspective and enhance personal relationships – not to mention the freedom you’ll feel! Try intentionally choosing times to be screen free by refraining from social media, TV and your computer. Whether you refrain from using technology during meals, while studying or first thing in the morning, you’ll increase your ability to focus and be present.
#4 | Spend Time Outside Every Day
Getting outside each day (even if it is for a short time) can vastly improve your mood and concentration. Remember to designate some time to go for a brisk walk or bike ride for a few minutes every day. When the weather warms up try doing homework outside or taking a relaxation break in the hammocks outside the Nebraska Union.
#5 | Attend a Cultural Event
There’s an entire world outside of Lincoln, and here on campus there are many ways to access it. Search through UNL Events and newsletters to find events put on by groups such as Global Nebraska, ISSO, OASIS or cultural student RSOs. Exposing yourself to cultures and traditions outside your own makes you a more well-rounded, understanding individual and can even lead to new friendships.
#6 | Get Organized
Resolving to be more organized is a very achievable goal. If you don’t already use a planner, find a physical or online version that works for you. By setting aside time to go through emails each day, setting up a filing system and writing down key info such as class times and office hours from your syllabi, you’ll set yourself for success.
# 7 | Stay Connected to Family & Friends
You may have just seen family or friends from your hometown over winter break, and continuing to foster those connections is important. Try setting a weekly timeframe to call your parents, relatives and friends—they’ll likely enjoy getting a chance to hear from you; and you’ll benefit from the continued reminder that those people love and support you.
BONUS: Get a Well-being Coach
Coaching is free for students and can focus on the topics that are important to you. Whether you want financial coaching, help working through stress or to expand your skills in any of the nine dimensions of well-being, a coach can help! Well-being coaches are students trained in helping peers build resilience through techniques like practicing gratitude, cultivating self-compassion, taking in the good and more. You can get to know the coaches and schedule coaching sessions online.
For more info on improving your well-being, connect with Big Red Resilience & Well-being | 127 University Health Center | 402-472-8770 | resilience@unl.edu.