Yep. It's that time again — making New Year's resolutions. Here's some advice on resolutions you can make to have a great year, no matter if it's your first semester or last. Just remember, you don't have to do it all. Do what works best for you!

1. Read more to de-stress

We know ... you'll already have reading assignments from class. But hear us out. Reading books from different genres helps you learn more about the world — which can help you when it comes to homework. It's like doing research before you even get the assignment!

Not to mention, reading can improve your focus, memory and communication skills. Just like working out builds muscles that make you stronger, reading helps your brain become even more knowledgeable. Who wouldn't want that?

Reading is also a great way to relax. The Journal of College Teaching and Learning conducted research that showed 30 minutes of reading can lower your blood pressure, heart rate and signs of psychological distress.

Need some ideas on what to read? The library has you covered. Check out their 2023 recommendations.

2. Work out to stay healthy — mentally and physically

Making time in your schedule for exercise is not only important for your body, but also your mind and mood. That's because exercise helps stimulate brain cell development, which helps improve memory, focus and concentration. Not to mention, it's also a great way to relieve stress.

And with the Morton Fitness Center, you have free access to cardio equipment, free weights, group fitness classes and more.

3. Get involved outside of class to take part in community

Looking to bag that job right after college? Get involved. Joining clubs and organizations builds your skill sets, increases your multicultural awareness, fosters leadership and can even help boost academic performance. Talk about making that resume pop!

From the Student Government Association to the Comic Book Club, there are several ways to go beyond the classroom at Texas Wesleyan. You may even make a new friend or two!

4. Stay organized to help reduce anxiety

If you're feeling anxious about the new semester, you're not alone. In fact, over 60% of college students have felt anxious about college in the last year, with one of the biggest complaints being keeping up with schoolwork.

One of the best ways to combat that anxiety is to stay organized. The Academic Success Center hosts free workshops to help you be prepared and establish good study habits. The first one starts Jan. 19, but you can always stop by the ASC on the first floor of the library for tips.

5. Do random acts of kindness to help others

You don't have to go out of your way to make a big impact on others. Simple acts of kindness could help make someone's day. Try:

• Opening the door for someone
• Paying for someone's coffee
• Complimenting someone
• Letting someone in a hurry step in front of you in line
• Offering to tutor a classmate
• Asking someone about their day
• Writing a positive comment online

By doing small acts of kindness each day, you could spread positivity in our community. That not only benefits the receiver, but you too! Research shows that spreading kindness can make you happier.

6. Go to networking events to prepare you for your career

Networking events can help you connect with professionals in your field. It's a great way to ask questions about your future career, get some inside tips and maybe even find that internship or job you've been thinking about.

If you haven't already, set up a LinkedIn account. It's a great way to digitally network with professionals and find networking events in the area. You can also talk to Career Services and your professors to get advice on organizations that offer networking events.

7. Practice better study habits to reduce last-minute stress

Toss out those last-minute cram sessions and start being more mindful of project and test timelines. Procrastination can not only be harmful to your grades, but also increase your stress levels. No thank you!

Try creating a timeline and breaking up your projects and study times into smaller parts that you can dedicate time to throughout your schedule.

If you need help figuring out a better schedule and study habits, check out the Academic Success Center’s workshops this spring. They’ll give you tips and tricks on how to make a plan and stick to it, so you can have better success in your classes and reduce your stress levels.

8. Get more sleep to be productive

We know — more sleep to be productive? Who has the time? With all the activities you have going on, it may seem to make sense to sacrifice sleep — but that can be damaging to your emotional, mental and physical health. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to higher stress levels, brain fog, a harder time concentrating and remembering things, increased irritability and more. Yuck.

9. Find a job or internship opportunity to polish your resume

The more experience in your field you can get, the better chance you'll have at getting that dream job after graduation. Stop by Career Services early this semester and make a plan on how to get an internship or job to help you get more experience.

Even just getting interview experience can help make a difference. You'll meet professionals in the field and get a feel for the skills that employers are seeking. It's a great way to get some practice and industry knowledge.

10. Have fun just to have fun!

When's the last time you scheduled time just to have fun? Learning how to have a good work-life balance can help you be more well-rounded and lead a healthier life. Make time to hang out with friends, go to events or activities that fit your interests and do things that bring you joy. It will help you de-stress, make memories and build confidence. Plus, you may even meet some new friends!

No matter if you take one of these resolutions or turn our advice into some of your own resolutions, setting goals can help you feel more accomplished this year. But don’t worry if you get off track — it happens to everyone. Take some time to refocus if you need to. You can always get back in the groove! And remember, keep your goals simple and attainable. That means if it seems like too much to accomplish, create easier steps that fit your needs.