Happy New Year, Huskies! It’s a new semester, which means that many students start out with big plans: go to the gym, get better grades, save money or stress less. But just about every February, many of those resolutions quietly disappear between exams, late nights and campus chaos. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

The good news? Keeping your New Year’s resolutions doesn’t require superhuman discipline — just a smarter approach.

Your mileage may vary, but here are a few simple, realistic tips I’ve used to help turn resolutions into habits that last beyond the first few weeks.

Start Small (Smaller Than You Think)

One of the biggest mistakes students make is setting goals that are too big, too fast. “Do my homework every day” or “never procrastinate again” sounds motivating, but it’s hard to sustain.

Instead, aim for something manageable like going to the library twice a week or studying for 30 minutes a day. Small wins build momentum, and momentum builds habits.

Tie Goals to Your Routine

College life is busy, so your resolutions need to fit into what you already do. If your goal is to read more, try reading 10 pages before bed.

If you want to eat better, start by adding one healthy meal per day rather than changing everything at once. If you’re eating at the dining halls, integrate more green variety into your plate little by little. You shouldn’t go cold turkey, or rather, cold salad (unless recommended by a health professional.)

When a goal is attached to an existing habit, it’s easier to remember and follow through.

Write It Down (Yes, It Helps)

Putting your goals in writing makes them feel more real. Whether it’s in a planner, notes app or on a sticky note above your desk, writing down your resolution can help keep it top of mind.

I actually use a real piece of paper for this. Indeed, our world — increasingly so here at UConn — is saturated with the “digital way of life,” but I find that writing on paper really does “make it stick.”

I say you get bonus points if you break writing into weekly or monthly goals — it makes progress easier to track and less overwhelming.

Expect Setbacks But Don’t Quit

Missing a workout or not doing so hot on a quiz doesn’t mean you’ve failed your resolution.

College life is unpredictable, and setbacks are normal. What matters is getting back on track instead of giving up entirely. One bad day won’t ruin your progress, but quitting will.

Plus, here at UConn, you’re rich with resources: When it comes to academics, there’s more than one place to turn for help, not to mention the numerous other places to enrich your mind and body in non-academic ways.

Use Accountability to Your Advantage

All signs say you’re more likely to stick with a goal if someone else knows about it. Tell a friend about your resolution, find a gym buddy or join a study group. Some students even use habit-tracking apps or calendars to stay accountable to themselves.

Remember, you can adjust and adapt your resolutions and goals.

Make It About Progress, Not Perfection

Resolutions aren’t about becoming a “new you” overnight, they’re about improving a little at a time. Celebrate progress, even if it’s small. Did you cook instead of ordering takeout? Start an assignment early? Those wins count.

My Resolution: A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned

I’m probably not the best journalist to write about financial responsibility. Although I’m not “Swipey McGee” with my card, spending money left and right, it’s one of my goals this year to save more money and put it toward what I truly need it for.

My chief way of making myself feel better: The old junk I like will still be old junk when I can afford to get it the next time!

At the end of the day, a lot of New Year’s resolutions don’t fail because folks are lazy or unmotivated. It’s just that some goals aren’t realistic for college life. Sometimes it’s a good thing to think big, but keeping your resolutions simple, flexible and forgiving will help make them last in the ever-changing college environment — and this year, you just might make it to December still going strong.

While I am no storied expert at keeping New Year’s resolutions, hopefully these tips were helpful. I’ll be rooting for you!