New Years Resolution, Get Organized!

by Lauren
(Minnesota)

Last year, my New Years resolution came to me during the long drive home from college for winter break. I was no longer the organized person I used to be.

I had just dropped two classes and failed one.

My finances were in the gutter. I was in debt: student loans, overdrawn bank account, sorority dues, traffic tickets. As my debts piled up and my grades fell, I saw my dream of going to law school slipping away. I was overwhelmed, and I still had Christmas presents to buy!

Over break, my stress level was high and I felt desperate. I vowed right then that next semester I would turn things around. My New Years resolution was to organize the chaos my life had become. This goal was important to me because everything I had worked for was at stake.

First, I struggled but managed to buy Christmas presents for everyone. Next, I made small payments toward my bills. I bought an easy-to-use day planner, a budget plan, and a goals sheet. I made a schedule, allotting time to study and time for work, because I needed income.

I stuck to a budget, made a dent in my debt, and concentrated on my studies. I also wrote down everything, which helped me stay organized.

By the end of that semester, I had managed to pull my grades up, pay off my tickets and dues, and keep a little money in the bank. Sticking to my schedule was the most difficult part, but the most helpful.

Hitting that emotional low allowed me to realize the absolute need to get organized. It was hard, but I did it :)

Lauren