Ringing in the New Year

Ferris students discuss what they plan to accomplish in 2015

A group of women practice yoga at the Yoga Shelter in West Bloomfield, Michigan on Wednesday, December 31, 2014.
A group of women practice yoga at the Yoga Shelter in West Bloomfield, Michigan on Wednesday, December 31, 2014. Photo Courtesy of mctcampus.com
With every New Year comes a plethora of people who vow that this will finally be the year they finish what they tried to start in 2011.

While the non-resolutioners get sick and tired of their treadmills being taken up at the gym for the first two weeks of the year, many people have the mindset of bettering themselves for the upcoming months.

“I don’t have ‘resolutions’ per say, but I always try to set goals for myself to accomplish over the year,” Communications sophomore Lindsey Hogan said. “I think resolutions are a great thing. There’s nothing wrong with someone trying to change for the better.”

While it’s true that one can only hear the phrase “New year, new me!” so many times before wanting to bash their head into a wall, some people don’t mind all the enthusiasm.

“I know the whole ‘new year, new me’ concept is a little overused, but the ones saying it are already a step ahead of the person judging them for it,” Hogan said. “I think the New Year can be a fresh start for everyone if they allow it to be.”

For some, the fresh start of 365 days can serve as motivation to go out and be productive.

“I’m not a huge believer in ‘New Year, new me’ but I’m sick of the jokes,” freshman Raquel Pekarek said. “If somebody has the motivation to go through with it, then we shouldn’t put them down. If people want to better themselves, let them do so.”

Music Industry Management freshman Devin Vargo’s perspective on resolutions is more commitment-focused.

“I feel resolutions are suitable for those who will truly stick to them,” Vargo said. “If one doesn’t have a successful past for resolutions, I’d recommend just setting small goals rather than tackling a large task and failing. It’s better for their self esteem, as well as friends who dislike hearing sob stories.

New Years is about more than just setting goals for the upcoming year. Whether your forte is staying in with a glass of wine and a good book or heading out to a wild party, there’s no wrong way to celebrate the past 12 months and welcome the next.

“On New Year’s Eve, my girlfriend and I went to a friend’s house,” Vargo said. “We ate, played too many board games, and watched the countdown on TV. I’d say it was an enjoyable way to welcome 2015.”

Regardless if you choose to participate in the resolution phenomenon or not, the New Year is a time to reflect back on the past year and prepare for the next adventure.