2016 New Year's Resolution by Colin

2016 New Year's Resolution by Colin - January 2016 Scholarship Essay

As a junior in high school, I am learning that needless worry and anxiety are the biggest hindrances to future success and productivity. In 2016, I am resolving to worry less and limit stress. Worrying about how well I have done on an essay, feeling anxious about tomorrow’s AP Biology test, feeling pressure about the number of community service hours needed for different organizations, and stressing about next Saturday’s wrestling opponent are just a few of the thoughts that often plague my waking hours.
An old proverb teaches, “Worry is like a rocking chair. It will give you something to do, but it won’t get you anywhere”. In the last several months of school, I have come to realize how much time is squandered in worry, and how much more can be accomplished when one simply tackles the matters at hand, and once completed, moves forward with no worry and no regrets. Worrying about what has already been accomplished or what still needs to be done, prevents me from focusing and adhering to a prioritized schedule.
In 2016, I am committed to taking the steps that will help to minimize worry and stress. I will continue to organize and prioritize assignments and events. I will run or participate in other physical activity, eat well, establish a better sleep pattern, and make a committed effort to always focus forward. I will not dwell on matters in the past, and instead, I will attend to the present without worrying needlessly about the unknowns of tomorrow. Finally, believing also in the existence of a higher power, I will strive to turn over those problems which are not mine to handle, and will recognize that I was never expected to control each and every waking moment alone.