Written by Journalism Staff Reporter Catherine Golovin
2024- a brand new year to reset, regroup, and restart... and what better way to kickstart that process than with a resolution? Making plans and setting goals is a common tradition when the clock strikes twelve, and Allatoona’s students provided insightful responses when prompted on their resolutions and the steps they would take to achieve them.
This year, 12th grader Reese Hartman is determined to tackle one of his largest fears: females. When asked about his plan to accomplish this goal, Hartman responded, “I will try to talk to more women,” and after prompted on his feelings about being interviewed by a female reporter, admitted, “I am absolutely terrified,” before hastily exiting the room.
Paired with academic success and self-improvement, the desire for financial stability is a common theme in Allatoona’s upperclassmen. “I just got a job because I’m trying to save up for college in the fall,” shared Emilee Cardwell. “I also like to have a comfortable amount of money so I can go out with my friends and avoid buyer’s remorse after spending a certain amount.”
Aiden Baker described his newfound mindset in a simple phrase- “Locked in.” Baker elaborated, “I want to do well in my classes, get a job, and get a car, so I have to be focused and 100 percent locked in all year, with the end goal in mind.”
Swimming sensation Landon Hanesworth shared his own ambitious goal of winning state this February- achievable through “hard work and simply being the best,” as Hanesworth explained the importance of confidence and preparation required to succeed in his sport. “I also want to improve my diet so I can perform to the best of my ability,” he added.
Athletic improvement was another common resolution, specifically consistency and increased dedication to the gym. “I would like to start going to the gym more because it helps me build confidence and feel happier with who I am, both mentally and physically,” responded Danielle Pintozzi. “I also want to become closer to my faith and surround myself with people who make me feel good.”
Other students are utilizing their resolutions to prepare for the future. “I’m really excited to graduate and experience adulthood, and I want to do everything I can to make my last semester memorable... which means I also have to focus more on my classes and make more time for myself to study,” said senior Miy-Ana McDuffie, whose goal is to prepare for life in college and set the path for success through work ethic and motivation. She plans to prioritize school and become more intentional with her time, avoiding unnecessary hobbies, and replacing them with more productive ones.
Surprisingly, an overwhelming number of students and faculty could not provide resolutions due to their unwillingness to commit to what most of them considered unrealistic standards for themselves. “Every year I set an unattainable goal and end up disappointing myself because I can’t follow through,” a student confessed. In fact, the second Friday in January is nationally recognized as “Quitters Day,” in which most people give up on their resolutions.
The key to maintaining a resolution is patience, motivation, and willpower. While the journey may be challenging, the potential for transformative change is significant, and can help pave the way for a more fulfilling, purposeful, and happier life.
