GO FOR YOUR GOALS THIS YEAR

Have you got a list of things you'd like to accomplish this school year, but aren't sure how you're going to make them happen? Make your vision a reality, with these practical tips from Myjellybean.com.

Amp Up Your Courage

Think about this: If you never try, you are guaranteed not to get what you want. And that would be a terrible thing! With a little bit of courage and self-confidence, you can create the path of your own life. Do what it takes to increase your risk-taking courage - whether that's putting "You can do it!" sticky notes in your locker, or giving yourself a pep talk in the mirror each morning. You CAN do it!

Put It On Paper

Make a list of all the things you want to do but you think you can't, like talking to a boy you're crushing on, telling a friend how you feel about that crabby thing she said, joining the baseball team at school, cutting down your chocolate habit, whatever. Then do one of them (yes you can).

Use The Buddy System

Build a team of friends to support you in doing your "Can'ts". They could help you practice what you're going to say to that boy, alert you when you've eaten 2 chocolate bars in one day, etc. Shared goals also work well, so see if some of your friends have some of the same "Can'ts" as you.

Take The First Step

Think of things you've been planning to do, but you've put off. Make a list. Maybe you've been thinking about starting to exercise, or you always say you're going to start eating better, or you've been meaning to go shopping for a pink nail polish to match your new pink top. Now take your list and pick something, and start taking small steps towards making it happen. Plan a shopping trip with friends for next week. Find out what exercise tapes are available at the local video store. Research healthy foods on the Web.

Express Yourself

A big part of making things happen, is learning to listen to yourself and speak your mind. Next time you want to say something and you find yourself biting your tongue, say it anyway! What could happen? Let people know how you think. They will respect your honesty. Say it nicely if you can, but if you can't, just say it.

Unleash Your Creativity

We are all creative in our own ways. Figure out the way in which you are creative, and start expressing your creativity by doing something with it.