By Jennifer Werner, Student at Radford University

Let’s face it, keeping New Year’s resolutions can be a bit of a challenge. Whether your goal is to lose a few extra pounds, make better grades or something as simple as just exercising more, it is easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life and let those resolutions fall to the wayside.

Instead of focusing on diet plans, exercise routines and just improving your grades, why not focus on a lifestyle change that will help you accomplish all of the above and help you in the future?

Learning time management can sometimes seem like a daunting task. However, it will not only help you in school, but it will help you when you find a job. Employers like people who know how to manage their time, not to mention that it also helps relieve some of the extra stress that is brought on by procrastinating. By learning time management, you can prioritize your workload, get assignments done more efficiently and still have time to hang out with your friends!

Plan out your day in advance. Make a to-do list that prioritizes your tasks in order of importance. Have a project or essay that’s due soon? You don’t have to do it all at once; make a goal to get a certain amount done each day. If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a little break. As you get in the habit of prioritizing your day and getting your work done in advance, you will gradually see an improvement in your work and stress levels.

While you’re organizing your day, make time to eat a healthy and well-balanced meal. Eating healthy is a lifestyle. Forget the diets and the tedious task of counting every calorie intake. Instead, add more protein, fruit and vegetables to your meals. Eat five or six small meals instead of three large meals. You don’t have to cut out all of your favorite not-so-healthy meal options but eat them in moderation. Not only will you find that you feel more energized, but you will create eating habits that will promote a healthy lifestyle that will be beneficial in the long run.

This year, be a healthier, more organized version of your already awesome self. Make a lifestyle change that will keep you going strong for years to come!

Want to find ways to keep your New Year's resolutions? Check out our New Year, New Chic board on Pinterest!

Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net