Although many things have changed over the past decade, one thing has always remained the same, and that is my perseverance to keep rolling despite the challenges. I always thought of my life as a game. For instance, learning to communicate on my own was Level 2 and learning to survive the dating scene was Level 19. The smarter and stronger I get, the more difficult the levels become. I usually have to try several times before I can go on to the next level. It can be a difficult, especially when I’ve gotten so close to finishing. I failed the math part of Level 20 (graduating college) three times before succeeding, and I haven’t gotten through a few current levels so easily either. Sometimes I just wish I could go back to playing the easy levels.

Do you ever feel that way? What about when the new year comes? Do you end up slacking off on your resolutions after a few months? According to statics from Statistic Brain Research Institute, only forty-six percent of new year resolutions last longer than six months. Accomplishing new habits is not as fun as picking them. For example, becoming more independent is a common resolution I hear from many young, physically impaired individuals. It is awesome to want to not rely on others; however, many don’t realize that it takes over 365 days to accomplish full independence. One can’t expect to know how to do certain things independently when others have helped accomplish them. I used to think I’d be able to do most things on my own by my first year of college.

Although I was efficient enough to handle college life, I still lived at home with my parents, and I relied on note-takers to help me keep up with lectures.  I was embarrassed and frustrated at first, but I realized that big goals can only be accomplished in small victories. By my senior year, I was as fast as my note-takers. Instead of worrying about making rent or dorm issues, I got to focus on learning how much help I’d need when I move out. So instead of making big laborious resolutions, I encourage you to start the habit of making regular daily, weekly, and monthly goals. For instance, you can start out with small things like brushing your teeth or going out without a caretaker. Some levels just have over one task. You may as well develop some good techniques while you can.