January is named after a mythical god in early Rome back in 153 B.C. Janus was known to have two faces – one looking back towards the past, and one looking forward towards the future. Today, Janus is a symbolic representation of letting go of the past and refreshing. Now,  every year, Jan. 1 tends to be the start of something new in many people’s lives. New year’s resolutions are a common priority to Americans who love the idea of positive change. 

A recent Finder survey reveals that an estimate of 64.6% of Americans are determined to learn something new, make a lifestyle change or set a personal goal in an effort to better themselves in 2020. The top five categories of resolutions are health improvement, self-care, finding a partner, prospering in their career and financial improvement. 

As high schoolers, involving positive change into their lives is a priority to most when opening a new chapter in their lives. With that people said, self-care and striving towards a prosperous future is a common goal. 

“Softball has been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember,” senior Madison Johnson said, “ My new year’s resolution is to incorporate what I have learned about teamwork into the college classroom and within my collegiate team.” 

Although resolutions are an exciting journey to play out in your head, it is one of those things that are easier said than done. In a recent Finder survey that the most common reason for not following through with their resolutions is the lack of willpower. It is estimated that 9.3 million Americans believe that their goal is not within reach, but some individuals claim otherwise. 

“My long term resolution is to invite more happiness into my life, versus allowing myself to feed into toxicity,” senior Taylin Spears said. ”As of now, I have been doing really well with making sure I am comfortable in my relationships and other situations. It makes it easy because I can feel the difference, which motivates me even more to stay positive.”