Every year without fail, as December comes to a close, people around the world feel inclined to write their "New Year's Resolutions."   Whether this goal is to give up smoking, travel more, or to read more books, the ultimate goal is to improve one's life in the coming year. After all, the start of a new year is the perfect time to turn a new page in your life, but does the somewhat overused quote "New Year, new me," really motivate you through the struggles of everyday life?

New Year's resolutions are portrayed in the media, not to last. Often due to loss of willpower. The tables have turned and the popular saying has adapted into "New Year, same me."

You were once able open up your social media account during the build up to a New Year, and see inspirational and motivational quotes. However now, large, successful accounts which are aimed at teenagers and young adults are swapping these for  "relatable" quotes describing how everyone will be back on their old habits by January 3rd!

When I asked my friends on their opinion, I was told, "It's a good idea to set personal goals to start the new year on a positive note. Whether or not you keep them , is up to you." However, others disagreed and said, "New years day is no different to any other, you can make a change whenever you feel  it's necessary. There is no need to wait."

The tradition of making New Year's resolutions began in 153 BC. The month of January is named after the mythical god, Janus. The Romans believed Janus could forgive them for their mistakes in the previous year, so the Romans made promises to Janus, believing he would bless them in the year ahead.  So surely it's time for a change? A real change. If a person is unhappy, why should they have to wait to January 1st to change that? If there is a change that needs to happen in your life, you should act upon it immediately. Perhaps that is a new year's resolution in itself.

To summarise, your New Year's resolutions last as long as you want them to last, whether you make them or not, it is still important to start a new year with a positive outlook.