As someone who has always struggled with anxiety and failure, I know how hard it can be when things are less than perfect. However, this year, my New Year’s resolution is to begin to learn how to be okay with imperfection.
Content Warning: mental health, food and weight loss
Over the years, I have made endless resolutions to better myself, from when I was little and I promised to stop biting my nails (which even now I can’t do without my acrylics on) to my teen years where I was determined to be the best at just about anything. But this year, I knew I needed to change something. I was sick of failing my impossible standards and feeling useless and like I was letting myself down. Although in many ways I am the wrong person to write this article, I wanted to share a few of the things I am learning.
Number One: tomorrow is a fresh start. This one in particular has been hard for me; I have been on seemingly 101 diets and weight loss plans and everytime when I mess up on one day, whether it be one (or 10) too many chocolates or getting too enthused when drunk about burgers, I always felt that this meant I had ruined my whole week, month, or year. This year I am looking to push aside a bad day and get right back on track (with whatever I am doing) the next day.
Number Two: something is better than nothing. Some days it can be hard to find the motivation or energy to do anything other than scroll through my phone for hours or even just get out of bed. On these days, it is good to remember that even if you cannot complete your whole to-do list, even just achieving one thing is absolutely worth it.
Number Three: progress over perfection. Often we are told that practice makes perfect, but ultimately the most important part of learning or doing anything is the journey to get there. Furthermore, this year I want to be able to learn from the progress I am making. I will be prioritising what I can learn, and this will help me in the long run rather than aiming for a singular perfection.
Overall, these tips can be used, not only for New Year’s Resolutions but for any struggles you may face throughout the year. We face many challenges as university students and although having a strong support system is important, it is equally important to have plans within your own self.
