Okay 2021... Let's See What You've Got

It can't get any worse... can it?

  • Posted Fri, Jan 1, 2021 12:00 PM

Welcome back students! And welcome to students starting in January and February!

Well, last year was a bit of a write off, and I’m sure you’ve seen all the typical January posts of ‘New year, new me!’. The new year is a great time to set resolutions and start the new year off on a good foot, don’t feel pressured to completely change everything because, to be honest, getting through last year was such an achievement, you might feel like you deserve a year off - and no one would blame you!

But if you want to shake off the cobwebs from last year, and start a fresh, check out our top tips for making 2021 a GREAT one!

You’ve had a (hopefully) relaxing Christmas break, with time to regroup and refocus. Try not to slip into old habits and try to combat procrastination. Get a brand new diary, write down your deadlines, plan ahead and feel on top of the world with effective time management. Excuse me 2020, we're busy doing hot girl stuff.

You don’t need to feel guilty about enjoying your Christmas dinner, or feel like you need to change your appearance - you look great!

Exercise is good for you and if you’re feeling a little sluggish after the festive period, see if you can incorporate a little more movement into your daily routine. Make sure you incorporate time into your day to head outside - for a walk or a run, it's up to you! You need fresh air and some vitamin D, and being outside will make you feel invigorated! Try first thing in the morning, before you start the day, go for a little lunchtime stroll or an evening peruse. As long as you're being safe and following the rules, the local area is your oyster!

If big resolutions aren’t your thing, setting smaller more achievable goals might suit you better - are you taking part in Veganuary? Dry January? Januhairy? Don’t worry that we’re already part way through the month - goals don’t have to stick to a rigid time frame. Perhaps your goal could be to read that book you got for Christmas, or finish that deadline coming up. By doing this, and having that feeling of accomplishment, you’ll feel a greater motivation for the New Year, and hopefully keep you on track for the rest of 2021. 

Your loan might be on its last legs already, and it's super tempting when you see your loan in your account to enjoy the last of the Boxing Day sales, or buying yourself that Christmas present you didn’t get; but now is the time to be a bit frugal. Remember, your loan has to last you a little while! So if you can, set yourself a budget and try to stick to it, limit the little bump of serotonin you get when you 'add to cart', cut down on take-aways and new outfits you don't have anywhere to wear them to. But also remember, it's okay to treat yourself a little bit too.

Christmas time can be really overwhelming, and especially this year with the whole of 2020 feeling like.. well rubbish, and with the January blues, some days you just don’t want to get out of bed. Know you are not alone and that other people feel like this too. You can always come and chat to the Advice Team, or your tutor, or check out some of our other resources for looking after your wellbeing, but if you just need some time for you - that’s okay! Make your favourite dinner, watch your favourite film, meditate and have an early night. Don’t forget to get out and about. Vitamin D levels are low for everyone this time of year, so try to get as much time outside as possible to boost your levels!


Remember, you don't have to succumb to the pressure of 'New Year, New Me', and don't feel distressed if you feel like your new year isn't meeting the expectation of social media - you do you.

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