*This* Is How To Figure Out - The Real You

We all love new beginnings, but a head-to-toe transformation starting jan. 1 won’t help you discover who you really are. Forget the quest for an all-new you—this year is all about the *true* you. Starting now...

TAKE CHARGE

Now’s the time to get up and do that one thing you’ve been dreaming about for, well, ever.

Whether it’s landing an awesome internship or self-publishing the novel you’ve been polishing, it’s up to you to take action. Seek out people who’ve paved the way for whatever you want to do by Googling, talking with teachers or asking family friends how they got to where they are.

Sure, it can be daunting (so. much. info.) but push through the second-guessing. Then, get out there and go for it.

STICK WITH YOUR GOALS

And while you’re going for it, know that not everything’s going to go your way. But if a door closes on you, who’s to say you can’t bust right through it?

This year, leap over those hurdles by staying focused on the big picture. Struggling in Biology? Don’t nix your med school dreams or vent to your bestie about how unfair Mrs. S. is. Instead, set up a meeting with your teacher to chat about your goals—and let her know you really want to improve.

Bottom line? Whatever problem you face, all it takes is knowing when to ask for help.

RETHINK REZZIES

The new year is almost here and your to-do list is loaded: a stellar report card, a spot on varsity, intact cuticles—the works.

Turns out opting for a total overhaul is too overwhelming. “Instead of making new resolutions, think of the things you’d like to continue into the next year,” says teen life coach Melissa Kahn.

Rather than adopting a brand new strategy for keeping your life organized, just do what you already do, but better.

Straighten your desk before bed, keep your folders in order on your laptop, put your laundry away every Sunday without fail. If you want to boost your grades, think about what’s working in your best classes (hello, not cramming) and apply those techniques to everything else.

BE HONEST