2024 is coming to a close, and the new year is right around the corner. Now’s the perfect time to think about a few resolutions you can make that will set you up for success in 2025.

A New Year’s resolution is a personal goal or commitment that you set for yourself at the start of a new year. It usually involves making positive changes or improvements in key aspects of your life; for example, taking steps to improve your health, build stronger relationships, or enable personal growth.

The idea is to reflect on the past year, identify opportunities for development, and create actionable plans to achieve these objectives. Resolutions often serve as a source of motivation and accountability. It’s a chance to make a fresh start with a sense of purpose as you look forward to the new year.

New Years Resolution Ideas for 2025

New to the tradition, and not sure where to start? Here are 16 resolutions tailored for high school students that you might want to consider for 2025:

Boost Your Grades

Set specific, achievable goals towards improving your grades. Remember, improvement comes from active steps – taking better notes, seeking help from a teacher, or utilizing a tutoring center.

Be a Better Student

Being a good student is not just about grades. Engage more in class discussions, seek extra credit opportunities, and help your peers. These actions can enhance your critical thinking skills, and demonstrate your leadership, in addition to boosting your final grade.

Prioritize Actual Learning

Rather than rote memorization, focus on truly understanding and internalizing your classes. Think about how each subject can be used in real-world situations.

Broaden Your Knowledge

Explore beyond textbooks. Whether it’s coding, tap dancing, or pottery, think about ways to stretch your horizons. Use resources like books, documentaries, podcasts or even courses at your local community college.

Broaden Your Network

Extend your connections beyond your immediate circle. Reach out to teachers, counselors, tutors, and friends. It’s always useful to have a strong support network.

Balance School & Life

While academics are important, it’s also crucial to find joy outside school. Learn how to balance school work with other responsibilities and activities effectively. Also, don’t hesitate to pursue your hobbies and passions; one might even develop into a career down the road.

Pay Attention to Self-Care

After a tough year, let’s prioritize self-care. Whether it’s regular exercise, good sleep, or daily flossing, remember that your mental and physical health matters.

Set Boundaries With Technology

Social media can be both beneficial and harmful. Consider setting limits on your social media use to mitigate its negative impacts.

Kick a Bad Habit

Consider letting go of a habit that’s holding you back. Seek support from loved ones and reward yourself for progress made.

Procrastinate Less

Identify what makes you procrastinate and work on overcoming it. Break bigger projects into manageable chunks and reward yourself for each completed task.

Get Organized

Clear your clutter, whether it’s on your desk or on your computer. An organized environment can help clear your mind.

Be a Responsible Citizen

Actively contribute to your community. For example, consider donating unwanted clothes or volunteering at local organizations.

Rekindle Old Relationships

Reach out to people you haven’t connected with in a while. It’s amazing how quickly true friends or family can bounce back to where they left off if you’re willing to make the effort.

Make a New Friend

Expand your friendship circle. Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations with acquaintances that might become potential friends.

Be a Better Friend

Quality trumps quantity in friendship. Improve your listening skills to become a better friend.

Practice Gratitude

Incorporate gratitude into your daily routine. It’s a simple practice that can improve your overall wellbeing.