Every new year brings unpromising New Year’s resolutions that only get us so far. We’re tired of gym memberships going to waste and litanies of books gathering a plethora of dust. Now, we’re going to break these year-long resolutions into semesters to keep us in check. Here’s the WSN Culture Desk’s list of ins and outs for the spring semester.
Ins
Getting a savory treat: Sweet treats have gotten much-deserved appreciation for single-handedly uplifting our spirits, but it’s time we acknowledge the arguably more satisfying opposite — the savory treat. I refuse to pretend that I want ice cream or a cookie when I am really craving chips or popcorn. Sometimes, I do have a sweet tooth, but most of the time I want to snack on a small, crunchy, preferably spicy treat like Trader Joe’s Chili and Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips or enjoy a filling and flavorful dip like hummus or guacamole. I have to restock my pantry to my truly satisfy my cravings.
— Juliana Guarracino, Culture Editor
Using a backpack when needed: Although I’m a tote bag loyalist through and through, is the shoulder pain really worth it when you’ve got nine hours of back-to-back classes that involve carrying camera equipment and switching between three subway lines? Not really, no. It’s time to stash my adorable Trader Joe’s and quintessential New Yorker tote bags for a more supportive, padded and traditional backpack.
— Sara Sharma, Deputy Culture Editor
Always wearing lip products: From the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask to Rhode’s Peptide Lip Treatment, I’ve hoarded nearly every trendy lip product on the market. The question is, “Do I even use them?” Chapped lips aren’t cute, especially in these cold winter months when it feels like your lips are about to peel off completely. It’s time to put all 27 of my lip balms and creams to the test, and hopefully, my lips will become healthier than ever before.
— Andrea Lui, Dining Editor
Prioritizing positive self-talk: As a nit-picky perfectionist, I am quick to criticize rather than compliment myself, especially during a stressful day. For 2024, I encourage us all to take a deep breath and look in the mirror for something we admire about ourselves. Whether it’s as small as your dimples, or as existential as your soul, one positive trait will quickly turn into more — and all of a sudden, you’ll be your own cheerleader.
— Elena Portnoy, Beauty & Style Editor
Complimenting people: Like a random person’s outfit? Maybe you admire a classmate’s public speaking skills. What about the perfect playlist your friend put together for your weekend hangout? Compliment them! I’ve often held myself back from complimenting someone — especially those I don’t know very well — for fear of being perceived as weird. But quite frankly, I can’t think of a time I’ve ever not enjoyed receiving a compliment, so why not do it for others? It’s a wonderful way to show people that they are seen and appreciated, whether you know them or not. Not only do compliments make others happy, but they can also improve your own life. Since I’ve embarked on my mission of complimenting people more, I’ve noticed that I’ve become more cognizant and appreciative of the people in my life. Essentially, compliments make others happy, and they make you happy too.
— Shiphrah Moses, Identity & Equity Editor
Outs
Saving things for a special occasion: I hear many say this and often catch myself saying it as well, but as cliche as it sounds, there’s no better day than today. So, why not do that colorful makeup look or wear that fancy dress? It’s easier said than done, but absolutely worth it. Any day can be a special occasion if you make it one. Even something as small as putting on my favorite pair of earrings or some heels can make the average day feel a little more exciting. I don’t remember what I did three Saturdays ago, but I’m sure I took a joyous picture in my outfit.
— Juliana Guarracino, Culture Editor
Starting the day with coffee: According to my mom, it’s half a lemon, a dollop of honey and warm water that’ll really do your immune and digestive system good. Though that’s a habit I eventually want to emulate, it’s officially time to start the day with at least a glass of water rather than two shots of espresso. Yes, caffeine gives me the jolt I need for early mornings but to start my day jittery is not something I want to normalize.
— Sara Sharma, Deputy Culture Editor
Taking a nap in the middle of the day: Whether it’s from jet lag or pulling an all-nighter the night before, taking a nap in the middle of the day is deadly. Deadly to your sleep schedule, your eating schedule and the essay you have due at midnight. I used to be an avid napper and before I knew it, I was sleeping at 6 a.m. and waking up at 2 p.m. It’s time to ditch the nap and choose productivity.
— Andrea Lui, Dining Editor
Screen time over five hours: While five hours seems like a huge amount of time to scroll on your phone, you’d be surprised by how quickly the minutes fly by when you’re staring at that addictive blue light. It’s time to stop dreading the weekly screen time notification and step back from our phones. Our free time is fleeting and precious, so put down those phones and pick up a new hobby. Just make sure you’re not swapping your phone screen time for tablet or computer hours.
— Elena Portnoy, Beauty & Style Editor
Minimalism: It is defined as only owning what is valuable to you and removing the rest, but for some reason, it has evolved into a joyless beige void with no personality. Whether it is the way you dress or decorate your space, allow yourself to indulge in different aesthetics, fill your life with color and put an end to minimalism. This is not to say that you must go to extremes of overconsumption, but rather to see the beauty in variety.
— Shiphrah Moses, Identity & Equity Editor
Contact Andrea Lui, Elena Portnoy, Juliana Guarracino, Sara Sharma and Shiphrah Moses at [email protected].
