To most people, starting the New Year means that it’s an opportunity to start fresh, make changes or,  more or less, stay the same. This opportunity leads people to make New Year’s resolutions, which is a good thing for those who need an excuse to start something new. I actually find it hilarious that people make resolutions and don’t go through with it because it has been said numerous times that it’s not even taken seriously. From what I’ve witnessed, a lot of people have said they were going to “start the New Year off right” and shortly end that by breaking their resolution. 

I think it’s wonderful that someone would want to change whatever needed changing, but it takes dedication, patience and moderation to keep your commitment. One of the most common resolutions that people often make is changes in their diet and/or exercise. My mother and I have decided to make changes towards our diet as our resolution. The difference between hers and mine is that I didn’t go cold turkey. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for eating healthy and what not but I have to have my sweets too, especially my toffee doodles from Starbucks.  This is where moderation kicks in because it’s good to make a change, but just make sure it’s something you’ll be able to continue and not quit after a month.

I feel as though resolutions would be taken more seriously if the person who made the resolution is a credible man or woman of their word. A lot of people are asked what their resolution will be for the New Year on social media, in person, or through other forms of connection. It’s nice to make such a commitment as long as you’re making this commitment to better yourself. You don’t have to do it because someone else wants you to. Just do it for yourself and that’s what makes a good resolution.

My resolution as far as dieting goes is cutting back on the things I consumed most in 2016, which were bread and potatoes. My mother’s resolution for dieting is not having any sweets, sugary drinks, caffeine or fried food. This may seem like a lot that is taken out of our diet but at least it’s done in moderation. We’ve both made an agreement to treat ourselves only on special occasions and holidays. I believe in giving props where props are due. I applaud my mother for going through with this monster of a resolution because Lord knows it’ll be a while before I perk my lips to say, “My diet contains no sweets, sugary drinks, caffeine or fried food.”

When first starting a New Year’s resolution, just remember that patience is a virtue. Sure, you might immediately regret the commitment you made for New Year’s but you’ll eventually learn to adjust to it. Resolutions work as long as you put the work in.