As the calendar turns to a new year, the tradition of setting resolutions offers us a chance to reflect on the past and shape our future. Your New Year’s resolutions can extend beyond typical goals like “get better grades.” The new year is an invitation to realign your actions with your aspirations of faith, personal growth, and core values. Read on for a list of ideas for resolutions that will enrich your life in the new year.
1. Intentional Time with God
Deepening your faith requires more than attending Mass. It involves establishing intentional daily habits. Instead of making vague resolutions, try to commit to specific, manageable goals. At Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, students focus on building their spiritual lives using a house system. Every student belongs to a house, and houses give students a chance to focus on spiritual expression by coming together in daily prayer, Mass and retreats. They also have meetings that open and close with prayer, reminding them that no matter what they are working on, faith should always be front and center.
2. Academic Focus and Future Preparedness
This year is the perfect time to reexamine your approach to school. How you engage with the high school experience can have a major impact on your future. If you attend Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, a new comprehensive college planning program will guide you and your family through the college admissions process. Consider how you can work toward finding a college or university that aligns with your individual goals, talents, and beliefs. If you need guidance to find that perfect place, the counseling team at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School will be there to support you and your family throughout the journey.
3. Service and Community
Service is a cornerstone of our community. To start the year, students at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School participate in a Day of Service during Catholic Schools Week. On this day, every student spends the entire school day dedicated to serving others in the community. Day of Service helps emphasize our school’s focus on the importance of service and contributing to the community. Students are required to put in at least 100 service hours before graduating, and they are free to choose projects that are meaningful to them in addition to those performed among their classmates. This commitment to selflessness is how we live God’s mission in our daily lives.
4. Mind and Wellness
Health is one of the most important qualities of a successful student. Your commitment to wellness directly impacts your focus, energy, and happiness. Resolve to improve your health in the new year. Prioritize your sleep schedule and ensure you get eight hours a night. Commit to a consistent form of physical activity. Focus on mindful eating and hydration to fuel your body. The new year is the perfect time to try new things and find what works for you.
5. Personal Growth and Hobbies
Commit to developing your character and exploring new interests in the new year. This way, you can broaden your mind outside the traditional academic sphere. You can set a goal to engage in a new extracurricular activity. Whether it’s a sport, club, or artistic pursuit, challenge yourself to develop new skills and leadership skills outside your comfort zone. As you make these changes, practice gratitude daily by keeping a journal. Keep a list of things you are thankful for each day. Focusing on your own personal growth can significantly shift your perspective and reduce stress.
The start of a new year is not about changing a few habits. It is an opportunity to transform ourselves into the people God calls us to be. Try to choose one or two resolutions that resonate with you and fully commit to them. Watch the positive change unfold in your life and your community. Bishop McLaughlin is here to support your growth in mind, body, and spirit throughout the New Year and beyond. For more information on student resources, Campus ministry activities, or extracurricular activities, visit our website.
