5 Tips for Graduate Students to Make Your New Year’s Resolution Stick
New Year’s resolutions are designed to help people start the year off organized, purposeful,
and ambitious. However, sometimes New Year’s resolutions can seem daunting and even
unachievable – especially as a graduate student balancing a career, academic demands,
and a social life.
Derrick Edwards, assistant professor and licensed counselor at Tennessee Tech University, gives 5 tips on how to stick with your New Year’s Resolution for 2025.
Set SMART goals
Starting the new year with a fresh set of goals is great. The issue comes when people
set unrealistic expectations.
“Unfortunately, we have the tendency to underestimate the power of habitual behaviors and overestimate our ability to control them,” Edwards explained. “This leads some resolution setters to attempt overly ambitious life changes.”
Edwards' first tip provides specific criteria for determining new objectives. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based. Setting goals that meet these standards ensures they can be reached and maintained.
Consider the big picture
Don’t overanalyze every aspect of your life and overwhelm yourself! Instead, find
one area you want to grow in and concentrate on that.
“For example, if you are wanting to improve your study habits, it wouldn’t be reasonable to expect your ‘whole life’ to be better. Instead, focus on the benefits of having less academic struggle, restful sleep, or a sense of accomplishment,” Edwards said.
Expect setbacks
Life happens, and no one is perfect! There will be obstacles throughout the year,
but don’t let an inevitable setback derail you completely. Expecting a few complications
allows you to plan accordingly for them. That way, when it does happen, you can be
prepared and stay motivated despite the interruptions.
Celebrate success
Every day you work towards the goal is progress to be celebrated! Achieving your goals
is a process—not a one-day event. Let go of the weight of tackling every little thing
and be proud of how far you’ve come.
“I encourage folks to measure success by their continued pursuit of the goal. Each week, day, or decision which brings you closer to your goal is a celebration-worthy win,” urged Edwards.
Stay the course
Consistency is key! A New Year’s Resolution is a year-long journey – give yourself
the space to take your time and enjoy each victory. Be encouraged by Edward’s advice
and utilize each tip to set, implement, and fulfill your 2025 New Year’s Resolution!
If earning a graduate degree is on your list of resolutions, we can help! Visit www.tntech.edu/gradstudies to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.
