As the new year begins, the cliché phrase “new year new me” surfaces and takes on a literal meaning when students take action and create new year resolutions.

January is often seen as a fresh start. Freshman Johnathan Shelf explained why resolutions are important.

“There aren’t a lot opportunities to start new. During the year, it’s definitely tough to drop what you’re doing and change. That’s why I think people decide to create resolutions in January because it’s like a chance to finally take action and stop doing things you know you shouldn’t or I guess start doing things people think they should,” Shelf said.

For sophomore Cassie Matts, the new year offered a fresh start and opportunity to better herself.

“I’m starting to do Sunday resets. Basically cleaning my sheets, taking a shower, cleaning my room and things like that. That way it’s a fresh week. I feel more motivated through the week this way,” Matts said.

Senior Spencer Fay created his resolution with his future in mind and had a plan to ensure his financial security after high school.

“My goal is to save money this year. The reason is that I’m going to college next year, and I just want to make sure I can get by in an environment I’m not familiar with. I think that saving money is the best way to prepare,” Fay said.

Some new year’s resolutions are more simple and created to break a habit.

“I have a shopping problem,” senior Breanna Pierce said. “I just recently spent $300 the same day I got it. I’m going to start saving every week and just stop spending money. I mean I’m definitely going to try. I don’t know how long it will last.”

A student’s state of mind is important, and for junior Delanie Kossler, improving her mindset was the goal.

“I’m working on journaling more and trying to keep up with doing my everyday journals,” Kossler said. “I think it helps me keep a clear focus of things. It like helps me unwind at night and collect my thoughts of the day and focus on what I need to do for tomorrow,”