With 2014 in full swing, some of us may be second-guessing those New Year’s resolutions. But have no fear — MOVE is here to give our readers some tips and tricks, as well as campus resources, to help you keep some of the most common New Year’s resolutions.
—–
_This year, I will…_
**work out more/lose weight.**
Probably the most common New Year’s resolution for many people is to get more exercise. Whether it’s to lose weight or to just get fit, this is pretty common. However, the very broad resolution of “I’m going to start working out more” can be very overwhelming, which is why it’s easy to give up on this one.
MizzouRec personal trainer Melissa Grelle says starting off with something you really enjoy can help get you into a routine. It may help to keep your resolution if you work out with a friend or a trainer as well, because you might be less likely to cancel plans if you have someone counting on you.
Grelle also says it’s important to not get discouraged if you miss a day or two — or even a week.
“Working out is not easy, and you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself,” she said. “Whether it’s been three days or three months since your last workout, it is never too late to start up again!”
—–
_This year, I will…_
**volunteer more.**
Maybe your specific resolution is something more like “be a nicer, better person,” but volunteering is a great way to start doing just that. (And to build your resume, too!)
MU has so many great volunteer opportunities on and off campus. If volunteering at a food pantry sounds like your style, you could try out Tiger Pantry. Tiger Pantry takes regular volunteers each semester, and you can apply online at [tigerpantry.missouri.edu](http://tigerpantry.missouri.edu/) or join their listserv for more information regarding the organization.
Another great opportunity on campus is Alternative Spring Break (and the related Alternative Winter Break). This organization sends groups of around 12 students each to places all over the country to volunteer at various locations in need. Applications for 2014 trips are closed, but be sure to make a note to yourself to apply at [asb.missouri.edu](http://asb.missouri.edu/) for next year’s trips.
—–
_This year, I will…_
**save money.**
Wouldn’t we all like to save a little more money?
As a college student, it’s hard to do so. When you’re always on the go, buying that $5 cup of coffee or that $7 sandwich can become really tempting. Unfortunately, these small purchases add up quickly, and eventually you’re left with a mere 50 cents in your bank account.
A big tip for being frugal: set yourself a weekly limit, such as only two to three Starbucks coffees per week, or only eating out once or twice a week. You will be amazed at how much money you save by buying groceries and making your meals ahead of time instead of eating out.
You might also try setting yourself a weekly budget (or an amount you think you’ll spend in a week) and taking that out of your bank in cash. It’s a lot more tempting to just keep swiping your credit or debit card than it is to hand cash over. With cash, you know how much you have left to spend at all times, and you’re less likely to overspend.
—–
_This year, I will…_
**quit smoking.**
If you’re having a hard time adjusting to the new smoke-free campus, you may be adding “quit smoking” to your list of New Year’s resolutions.
This can be one of the hardest of all. Fortunately, MU has plenty of resources to get you pointed in the right direction.
The Wellness Resource Center, located in the basement of the Student Center, has cessation coaches available to help you through the process of quitting. They can develop a personalized plan, as well as provide you with some peer support. The WRC can also provide free nicotine replacement patches, lozenges or gum.
If this is on your list of New Year’s resolutions, it’s definitely possible with the help from these resources here on campus. Go to the WRC’s website at [wellness.missouri.edu](http://wellness.missouri.edu/index.html) to schedule an appointment today.