I have been making (and breaking) my own resolutions since I was old enough to comprehend the concept of the ‘New Year’s Resolution’. For nearly a decade now, my resolutions have sounded something like this: 1) Do well in school/university, 2) Read, read, read, 3) Take up a new hobby, 4) Drink more water, 5) Be good to my body… yada, yada, yada. For nearly a decade now, I have been mistaking these basic reminders for grand resolutions. 2023 is the year that all changes. 2023 is the year of specificity.

Rather than compile an impossibly long (and dull) list of resolutions, I limited my 2023 list to 5 resolutions. The theme of my 2023 New Year’s Resolutions list: short, specific, ambitious.

1. Read a book a week (at least).

I fell into a major reading slump when I finished my master’s. My reading habits were so regimented that I found myself feeling overwhelmed whenever I looked at my bookshelf. My reading slump consisted of everything. I struggled to finish books that I was initially excited to read. I even spent days (weeks even) without picking up a book. One positive outcome of my reading slump, though, was that it allowed my passion for books to return. So for 2023, rather than spend two-plus weeks on a ridiculously long classic novel, I have a different plan. I plan to dip into every genre. I plan to dip into every length. Whether it’s a novella one week. Or an epic poem the next. As long as I am reading consistently, that is good enough for me.

2. Learn a language (or languages).

I never quite understood the power of language post-2021/22. Living in an exceptionally diverse city with a bilingual and exceptionally open-minded flatmate was the eye-opener I so desperately needed. I plan to learn a language this year. I also plan to learn a language by completely immersing myself in a new culture. It’s time I give back to all those who have devoted their time to learning English.

3. Take up photography.

I am wary of this digital age in which we are living. Yet, I am grateful for what platforms like Instagram and Pinterest make accessible: breathtaking photography. My plan this year is to jump on the aesthetic bandwagon. I aim to document the everyday beauty that surrounds me. I have one very niche goal. It is to compile enough footage to re-create one of my favourite TikTok trends: ‘Humans being humans’.

4. Finally take that trip to Paris.

This one is more a goal than a resolution. A plan that was derailed because of a certain global crisis that shall not be named…

5. Spend New Year’s Eve 2023 at a rooftop party.

I don’t know where I will be on New Year’s Eve 2023. All I can say is that I will spend these next twelve months with a goal. The goal is to rein in 2024 on a rooftop… A rooftop overlooking a bright city.

Happy New Year, all. Let’s make it a good one.🖤