We set big goals for ourselves at the start of every new year and they're ditched within a week or two, so why not start small and work your way up? It's the best way to feel accomplished and become more motivated!

1. Choose one bountiful healthy meal to make each week.

It doesn’t have to just be one course, let it be a full three-course feast! Whip up a few healthy Pinterest recipes and it’ll be something you can look forward to weekly.

2. Spend 30 minutes doing some sort of physical activity at least three times per week.

That’s all that is physically required in order to have a healthy body. Manic training and high-intensity interval training plans may seem tempting with the start of a new year, but start off slow and then kick it into gear. It could be walking around campus in between classes or even going rock climbing.

3. Start off each day with a theme song.

When you wake up, blast a song that will set you up for your day and follow you throughout. It’ll really get you awake and out of bed. Continue listening to the playlist while you’re getting ready, waiting for your straightener to heat up, or your coffee to brew. Got roommates or living at home with family who don’t get up as early as you? Plug in some headphones and jam out! Running late? Just blast it in your car or on your walk to class!

4. Plan one event night every week.

Gather your friends and set aside one night each week to do something together. It can be the same thing every week, such as watching a movie or going bowling, or you can switch it up each time. Don’t worry if everyone can make it or not, just have fun with those who can, even if it’s just one other person. Busy week ahead? Try to plan in advance, which might mean not procrastinating until the night before.

5. Get organized with a planner!

Speaking of planning, this year might be a busy one if you picked up a minor or second major, a new job, an internship, or you just have a lot on your plate. Pick up a planner that will make each day a little less stressful to get through. Don’t settle for a boring cover, pick one that will make you excited to plan and become organized! If one of your goals is to become more organized this year, this is your first step.

6. Pay your bills in increments.

Ever get hit with a huge bill at the end of the month that you didn’t see coming? Try to pay it off in small pieces. If it’s a loan, divide up the monthly cost by 4 weeks and create envelopes for each week. By doing this, you can physically see how much money you have leftover to spend. If you don’t have loans but you have a credit card bill, keep an envelope for the money owed. Every time you use your card, try to deposit the cost into the envelope. If you don’t have the money for it when you purchase it, you might not have it when the bill comes in.

7. Have a “treat yo self” day once a month.

Whether it be a spa day, shopping spree, or a day to sleep in and veg out, pick a day and do it. Even if you have “literally no time”, try to find one day out of the whole month and go for it. You’ve worked hard for this!