New Year's Resolutions All Millennials Should Have On Their List
At the start of a new year, many make resolutions. But which ones should be focused on by millennials, in particular? According to History, the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions, about 4,000 years ago. Similarly, in ancient Rome, sacrifices were made to a deity and promises were made for the upcoming year. In today's time, people — around 45% of them in America alone — think about changes they need to implement, with just 8% of them following through on these goals.
Even though it is hard to keep up and have a perfect score 365 days later, this tradition can be a helpful and healthy one. As we regularly reflect on positive intentions and habits, we notice a real difference and make a real impact. That being said, here are New Year's resolutions that Millenials, or those born between 1981 and 1996, should focus on in the upcoming year (via Beresford Research).
More than half of millennials are looking to save money
Common goals for those in this age group are those focused on finances. A recent study from Finder found that over 50% of millennials have money-related New Year's resolutions, and a big part of that has to do with wanting to finish paying off student loan debt and focusing on buying a house, per PureWow.
More and more young adults are starting their own companies, setting their own schedules, and embracing minimalist lifestyles by living in vans, buses, or RVs. These exciting trends can help earn and save more money (via CNBC). Additionally, as reported by Nerd Wallet, there are more basic ways to try and keep these resolutions. People can stick to grocery lists, cut down on ordering out, turn to coupons, and keep an eye on their bank account to reach goals set up to buy a house, pay off loans, and/or save for retirement.
Think of what you could do with all that time spent on your phone
Another wise goal for millennials to think about is how to spend their time differently. According to National Retail Federation, on average, those in this age bracket spend nearly four hours a day on social media. While these apps and platforms can be addicting and are full of connections and creativity, those hours could be spent doing so much more.
You could work out or take up a new hobby. You can hang out, face-to-face, with a loved one. You could paint a picture, listen to records, or read a book. You could do something practical, such as cleaning the house or cooking meals for the week. You can even devote time to a certain project you may have been avoiding. Try cutting down on phone time, just a bit, and see what happens. We bet that you will enjoy the alternatives and will feel better. And when you're done, Instagram will still be there, waiting for you.
Keep Mother Earth in mind
As stated by the Pew Research Center, younger generations have higher levels of engagement with environmental issues. Compared to their parents and grandparents, they talk more about these topics and are more involved, going as far as attending climate-focused events and partaking in eco-friendly volunteer opportunities. Everyone sees the statistics regularly reported on about the earth's decline. The start of a new year is a good time to re-remind yourself and others of steps that can be taken to make a change. Picking up trash, switching to reusable items, and walking instead of driving are just a few simple actions that help protect the earth.
One way to increase the chances of reaching a goal is to have a support system (via Verywell Mind). Tell your friends and loved ones what your goals are to stay motivated, and in turn, you might motivate them to take on the same resolutions. And who wouldn't want to save a little more money, spend a little less time on social media, and become a little more eco-friendly? It's a win, win.