- Readers share their resolutions and goals for 2023
It’s a new year, and with that comes along new goals and resolutions for the coming months. Having resolutions is a great way to better oneself. New Year’s resolutions can certainly help a person set goals for themselves and work towards making positive changes in their life. Making a resolution can also be a way for a person to reflect on the past year and think about what they would like to improve or accomplish in the coming year.
Research shows that people who make New Year’s resolutions are more likely to succeed in achieving their goals than those who don’t. Perhaps it may be because making a resolution creates a sense of accountability and commitment to oneself. We asked our readers for theirs, and here are some of our top picks – we wish everyone good luck with sticking to their resolutions!
Shanira Dalawella, who works in the field of customer assurance, and is studying brand marketing and advertising, wishes to “find someone nice this year”. He is also on the lookout for a sense of peace within himself.
Natalie Pereira, studying in the field of hospitality, has a strong resolution to “do whatever I want this year”, choosing to say no to societal pressure and do whatever she pleases, following her dreams. Following your dreams is certainly important. “For me, pursuing my dreams will bring a sense of fulfilment and purpose to my life. It can also allow you to use your unique talents and abilities to make a positive impact on the world,” she said. She strongly believes following your dreams can help you to become the best version of yourself and to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Charithma Gamalath has a resolution that every one of us should take to heart. “I want to love myself a little more than I did last year,” she says. Self-love is the best and most important form of love, she feels, adding that once you love and respect yourself more, you’ll never settle for less than you deserve and all good things will begin to come your way.
“Self-love is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life. When you love yourself, you are more likely to take care of your physical and emotional needs, set boundaries to protect yourself, and pursue your passions and goals, she told us, adding that self-love also allows you to have a positive and realistic view of yourself, which can lead to greater self-confidence and self-esteem.
“This way, you can be more accepting of yourself, including your flaws and imperfections. When you have a strong sense of self-love, you are more likely to be kind, compassionate, and non-judgmental towards yourself, which can lead to greater happiness and wellbeing,” she said.
Sewmini Diyagama said: “I want to find new ways to love myself. I also want to make my parents proud, and repay them for everything they’ve done for me.”
Manelka Perera shared her long list of resolutions with us. She has set high standards for herself and aims to stay focused on them to the best of her abilities, while still setting aside time for herself. She aims to “focus on self-love, self-care, and etiquette by working on my health and fitness”.
“I also told myself to speak up when I’m wronged. Getting to work on time is something I will be working on this year. I’m also interested in learning two new languages.”
She’s a lover of music who resolves to practise her music at least twice a day.
Antoinette George, an attorney at law, comments that she’s not very big on resolutions, but she plans on getting more serious with exercise and working out consistently.
Suran Whehella, who will be sitting for his A-Levels this May, said: “I’ll work harder and study more. Aside from that, I think I want to exercise more, eat less junk food and be more conscious of my health.”
He pointed out that taking care of one’s physical health was proven to be of the utmost importance due to the pandemic, and staying fit and healthy will boost your immune system so you can fight off any new diseases – who knows what this year holds!
Uthara Silva added: “I want to be hydrated and not overthink situations. Anxiety is something most of us struggle with, so always remember to take some time off for yourself, and drink water!“ Silva added that since anxiety can interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life to the fullest, if you are experiencing anxiety that is disrupting your daily life, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional. “They can help you identify the cause of your anxiety and develop strategies to manage and reduce it,” she shared.
Rehan Meemaduma, a psychology major, declared that this year, he will get his licence to practice, no matter what it takes. He also plans to take up some social work and engage in community service projects.
Sadira Sittampalam, a copywriter, has a very relatable resolution: “I resolve to use UberEats less and purchase fewer unnecessary things. It is the bane of my existence and perhaps it’s time I uninstall this app before it causes any more damage to my wallet!” She also aims to maintain a better posture in 2023. “I tried this in 2022 as well – found that constantly sticking sticky notes everywhere around the house is a (not-so-gentle) reminder to sit up straight,” she further noted.
Ovin Gamage reveals he doesn’t have any resolutions, “I started working on my goals before the New Year. It’s just another day. If you want something you have to start right now. It’s one day or day one – there is no time like the present,” he said. It is often said that there is no time like the present to start working on your goals, and the start of a new year can be a particularly motivating time to set goals and make positive changes in your life. But remember, you can start working towards your goals and resolutions at any time, not just at the beginning of the year. “It’s never too late to make positive changes in your life and work towards your dreams. So, if you have a goal that you want to achieve, don’t wait – start working on it today!” he added.
Channa Fernandopulle plans on getting more serious about Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which is a martial art and combat sport system that focuses on grappling, with particular emphasis on ground fighting. He commented: “I was doing it semi-regularly. I also aim to be more disciplined in 2023.”
Shavintha Mapatunage, studying in the field of computer science, commented: “This year I’d like to go with the flow, but also dedicate some time to what I love doing. I want to focus more on my music art, and delve deeper into my love for fashion.”
Dinil Jayasekara, currently residing in Australia for his studies, said: “This is super far-out, but I plan on getting a photography startup running over here.” Jayasekera has really thought about what he wants to do with his life, and has big plans and dreams, with hopes that his ambitions come to fruition this year.
Chaniru Senevirathne’s resolutions lie on a relatable line, as she said: “I’m going to spend more time with my family. Other than that, It’s time I stop procrastinating at every given opportunity.” Procrastination is a bad habit of his, that interferes with his ability to achieve your goals and be productive.
“I put off my tasks or responsibilities until later, and then I get stressed, and I decrease in efficiency,” he added. If you struggle with procrastination, there are strategies you can try to help overcome this habit. “I think this year I’m going to identify the root cause of your procrastination and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to this habit,” he told us.
Law student Thavindya Jayawardene remarked that she will be making a better effort at university and focusing on her studies. “I also want to dress better. In terms of hobbies, I want to watch more shows and movies, and listen to better music.”
