As the calendar turns to a new year, many State High students are taking time to reflect on what they want to leave behind, improve on, or experience in 2026. The start of a new year offers a chance to hit the reset button, set fresh goals, and focus on self-improvement. New Year’s resolutions, while sometimes challenging to stick with, remain a popular way for students to set intentions for the year ahead.
Resolutions are promises or goals people make to better themselves in some way. These goals often focus on health, academics, or building new habits. Despite studies showing that fewer than 10% of Americans who set New Year’s resolutions stick with them for a full year, students at State High are approaching the new year with realistic expectations.
For some students, goals build on past achievements or personal interests. Junior Kate Wheeler is taking what she accomplished last year and pushing herself further.
“My specific New Year’s resolution is to run a full marathon. Last year I ran a half marathon, so I want to run a full one this year. And I also want to learn a new language, and my language of choice is Chinese,” Wheeler said.
Many students are also using the new year as a chance to try new experiences or make changes to their daily routines. Whether it’s traveling, improving sleep habits, or strengthening their academic focus, the new year offers a chance for a fresh start.
Beyond specific goals, students say motivation comes from reflecting on themselves and how they respond to challenges. Junior Lucas Starks wants to focus on keeping perspective and letting things play out naturally.
“One thing that I want to carry into this year is, I guess not making, like, not making a big deal out of things that I have no control over,” Starks said. “Just letting it all play out.”
Sophomore Micah James shares a similar mindset and focuses on being more honest with himself.
“I learned that I need to be more real with myself instead of just jumping to conclusions,” James said.
For seniors, motivation is often connected to future success. Sydnee Royer says that her goals are guided by where she wants to be after high school.
“When I think about myself in the future and what I want to achieve, that is what I look to every day…I want to go to med school, that’s my motivation,” Royer said.
Students also mentioned that sticking to resolutions takes accountability and simple strategies. Wheeler uses small rewards to help her stay consistent.
“I like to give myself rewards at the end of it,” Wheeler said. “ If I do it, I give myself a reward for doing it, and I make it something that I want really bad.”
As 2026 begins, State High students are entering the new year with intention and reflection. Across grade levels, a common theme is school-life balance. Whether their resolutions involve running a marathon, adjusting daily habits, or preparing for the future, the focus remains on growth. Even if not every resolution lasts all year, setting goals can help students stay motivated to achieve their desired outcomes.
