New Year, New Goals.

As the new year is fast approaching, I thought it'd be appropriate to write a post on my goals for this upcoming year. I'm really excited about these goals and can't wait to start them. Normally, I have pretty similar resolutions every year- but this year I decided to take a stretch and make my goals more "college prep based". So here we go....

1. Read at least 10 minutes a day.

This can include scripture reading, fun book reading, or school reading. But I MUST do it. According to collegeboard.com, it is crucial for high school students to read daily because it increases your knowledge, which helps you to score better on standardized tests.

2. Write once a day.

This was also advice taken from "collegeboard.com". Writing daily improves writing skills, without the stress of being graded on it. Therefore, I am making myself either write on this blog or in my journal daily. School work is not going to be included in this goal.

3. Become more involved.

This includes school activities, church activities, clubs, friend's plays, etc. But the main thing I want to focus on with this goal is volunteer work. I already volunteer at a nursing home once a week, but I really would like to expand on this and become more involved in volunteering and service.

4. Gain a stronger testimony.

I'm not always "on the ball" with remembering to read my scriptures and say my morning prayers (I do good with night prayers), so I've made it a goal to read my scriptures 5 minutes (at least) a day and put up reminders to help me remember my morning prayers. I know that by doing these things I'll be able to become closer to my savior.

5. Treat others as Christ would have.

To be honest, I can be a really mean and judgmental person. So this year, I've decided that a way to make me (and others) happy to is do as my Savior would. That specifically means; no gossiping, smiling at everyone around me, helping those in need, reaching out to those who need to be reached out to, and just thinking about what Christ would do in situations- rather than what society would do.

6. Eat Healthier

The one I'm dreading a lot. I know that I really don't have good eating habits and I know that it needs to change super fast, but I just love unhealthy food too much. But this year I'm going to flip that around and change my outlook on food. That means no more fried chicken and potato chips from the cafeteria, but instead fresh produce and salads with a healthy dressing. Also, exercising more. I was in the habit of running 2 miles a day, but I became too busy. I need to pick that up again this year.

All in all, I'm really excited for the new year of 2012 and the chance that I have to improve my life and make me a better person. Happy Holidays!

Coming Up Soon: A Winter Break "Must-Read" List

AND

Later on: "The Ultimate Christmas Break Movie Guide"

Both put together by MOI (: XOXO