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As the year comes to a close and the new year approaches, it鈥檚 natural to start thinking about setting goals and resolutions for the year ahead. This tradition of reflecting on the past and planning for the future is a great way to focus your energy on self-improvement. New Year鈥檚 resolutions are often seen as a fresh start, providing a clear direction for the coming year and motivation to create change.

However, instead of the typical, broad resolutions, a more specific and mindful approach has emerged:聽creating an “ins and outs” list.
This list allows you to clearly outline what habits, goals, or behaviours you want to embrace and which ones you want to leave behind. It鈥檚 a way to get more intentional with your choices, helping you prioritise your needs, wants, and aspirations for the year ahead.听

What is an ins and outs list?

The trend of creating an ins and outs list started on TikTok and Instagram. Rather than the traditional New Year鈥檚 resolutions, which focus on lofty goals or vague promises, people are now making lists of things they want to embrace or leave behind for the upcoming year.听

The best part of these ins and outs lists is that they can include anything 鈥� whether it鈥檚 new habits like 鈥渂eing on time,鈥� or letting go of old habits like 鈥減rocrastination.鈥澛�

The “ins and outs” lists gained popularity because they are easy to relate to and accomplish.
Instead of focusing on perfection, the trend encourages small but meaningful changes, like adopting healthier habits or trying new activities.

For example, “in” might include things like practising mindfulness or sustainability, while “out” could mean cutting back on screen time or letting go of toxic habits.

Rather than setting unrealistic goals, focusing on achievable goals can lead to lasting results.听

Why you should have an ins and outs list

Creating the ins and outs list is a great approach if you want to make meaningful changes in your life. This approach allows you to reflect on your current habits and behaviours, identifying what you want to embrace and what you want to leave behind.

It provides clarity and helps you prioritise areas for personal growth, whether it鈥檚 improving time management, focusing on academic performance, or adopting healthier habits. Studies show that self-reflection, like making lists, can by providing clear goals to work towards.听聽

Rather than feeling overwhelmed by broad resolutions, you break down your goals into actionable and manageable changes. This focus on small, positive changes can have a big impact over time.

Writing down your goals has been shown to improve accountability. According to a study, students who wrote down their goals were . 聽

8 ins and outs for 2025

 

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1. Budgeting聽

As an international student, managing your finances effectively can be the difference between a stress-free semester and one full of financial worries. Budgeting should be at the top of your ins and outs list for 2025 because it helps you keep track of your spending and save money while living abroad.听

What to let in: Start by using budgeting apps like Mint, You Need a Budget (YNAB), or Splitwise for shared expenses with friends. These tools make tracking your spending easier, so you can set realistic monthly goals.

Cooking meals at home is also a great 鈥渋n鈥� to have on your list. Not only does it save money 鈥� studies show that preparing your meals 鈥� but it also lets you explore new cuisines and maintain a healthier lifestyle.听

What to kick out: Ignoring monthly spending limits should definitely be on your “out” list for 2025. Overspending on food or accumulating unnecessary subscriptions can quickly drain your money. For example, it was found that the average person . Be mindful of this and regularly review your spending to avoid unnecessary financial stress.

2. Productivity聽

Staying productive is important when you are a university student trying to balance couraewoek, projects, social life, and personal goals. Adding productivity tools to your routine in 2025 will help you manage your time more efficiently, reduce stress, and stay on top of your tasks. Whether you are managing your assignments, adjusting to a new culture, or working with classmates, using the right apps can make a big difference.

What to let in: One of the easiest ways to boost productivity is by using apps like Notion, Todoist, or Google Calendar. These apps help you stay organised by tracking deadlines, setting reminders, and managing your schedule all in one place. Collaboration apps such as Slack or Microsoft Teams are useful for group projects, allowing you to communicate and share resources with classmates easily.听

What to kick out: Overloading your phone with too many apps that you don鈥檛 use consistently can lead to unnecessary distractions and waste of storage space. Research shows that , so focus on apps that help you stay organised and focused.

3. Academics聽

Succeeding academically includes a combination of good study habits, effective time management, and clever use of available resources. In 2025, it鈥檚 important to adopt strategies that support consistent learning and help you manage the pressures of university life.听

What to let in: One of the best ways to reinforce learning is through online platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, or Quizlet. These platforms offer free or affordable materials that can supplement your lectures and help you grasp complex concepts at your own pace. Another great practice is using time management techniques such as the Pomodoro method or study timers. Research shows that .听

What to kick out: On the other hand, procrastination and cramming for exams should be avoided, unless Kay Chung. Research has found that .听

Yoga can help you calm your mind and relax your body, which can reduce stress and anxiety. Source: AFP

4. Health and wellness

Maintaining your health and wellness should definitely be on your ins and outs list for 2025. Dealing with academic pressures in a new environment can be challenging, and neglecting your physical and mental health can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. Prioritising well-being through healthy habits and seeking support when needed will help you stay focused and feel your best while studying abroad.

What to let in: One of the key components of wellness is mental health. Use platforms like BetterHelp or your university’s counselling services to manage stress and emotional challenges. Research shows that . On the physical side, staying active is essential. Apps like Fitbit or Nike Training Club can help you track your workouts, while a local gym membership is a great opportunity to relieve stress and boost your energy. Regular exercise is proven to.听聽

What to kick out: Neglecting signs of burnout or skipping out on exercise and sleep should be on your “out” list for 2025. Studies have shown that .

5. Career development

While it may feel too early, but planning for your career while still in university is a great way to ensure you achieve a successful future. By taking part in career-building activities such as networking, skill development, and utilising professional platforms, you can enhance your employability and stand out to employers. The earlier you begin, the better prepared you鈥檒l be when it鈥檚 time to enter the workforce.听聽

What to let in: One of the best ways to showcase your growth is by regularly updating your LinkedIn profile with new skills, certifications, and achievements. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for connecting with potential employers and networking with professionals in your field. Attending virtual or in-person career fairs and networking events is just as essential. These events provide opportunities to connect with employers and learn about different industriea 鈥� boosting your chances of securing internships and job opportunities.听聽

What to kick out: Waiting until graduation to plan your career should be on your “out” list. According to a survey by NACE, students .

Fast fashion has a huge impact on the environment, creates massive waste and contributes to climate change. Source: AFP

6. Sustainability聽

Incorporating sustainability into your daily life benefits the environment and can help you save money and reduce waste. Universities and cities around the world are emphasising eco-friendly practices, and adopting sustainable habits. By making conscious choices, you can lower your environmental footprint while also supporting a more sustainable future.听聽

What to let in: Thrifting for clothes and furniture is a great way to save money and reduce waste. Many find that secondhand shops offer high-quality, affordable options for everything from clothing to household items. Another easy shift is using reusable items like water bottles, coffee cups, and tote bags. Studies show that at least 500 billion disposable cups are used every year鈥攃hoosing a reusable option can reduce waste. These simple changes help minimise your environmental impact while aligning with your sustainability goals.听聽

What to kick out: Buying fast fashion and single-use plastic items should be on your “out” list. The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution, and single-use plastics are a major source of waste. Research from the UN Environment Programme shows that , much of which ends up in landfills. By opting for more sustainable alternatives, you contribute to reducing waste and supporting a greener planet.听

Joining clubs and societies will allow you to meet and mingle with people who have similar interests as you. Source: AFP

7. Social life聽

Balancing academics and social life is essential for a fulfilling university experience. Engaging in social activities not only helps you make friends but also enriches your cultural understanding and broadens your network. By being open to new experiences and connecting with people from different backgrounds, you can make the most of your time abroad. However, it鈥檚 important to strike a balance, ensuring that your social life enhances your university experience without overwhelming you.听聽

What to let in: One great way to build connections is by joining university clubs and attending events. Whether it鈥檚 a student organisation, volunteer work, or academic societies, these activities provide opportunities to meet people with shared interests and gain skills. Apps like Meetup or Bumble BFF are also great for expanding your social circle. These platforms help you find friends based on your interests, making it easier to explore new hobbies and make lasting connections.

What to kick out: On the other hand, staying within one cultural group or avoiding socialising altogether can limit your experience and prevent you from gaining new perspectives. It was found that international students who engage in cross-cultural interactions tend to have a . However, overcommitting to too many activities can lead to burnout. It鈥檚 important to find a balance between socialising and focusing on your academics to avoid spreading yourself too thin.

Social media breaks can help you focus better on tasks and work more efficiently. Source: AFP

8. Technology聽

Technology is a big part of university life. It helps you stay organised, connected, and productive. However, it is important to use it wisely. In 2025, balancing the benefits of technology with mindful habits will help you maintain focus on your studies and personal growth while safeguarding your digital security.听聽

What to let in: A great practice is to back up important documents, such as assignments, research, and personal notes. Using cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox ensures that your files are secure and easily accessible across devices. Incorporating a digital detox into your routine can improve your focus and mental well-being. Studies show that taking breaks from screens, especially social media, . Setting boundaries for screen time, such as using apps to track usage, can encourage you to disconnect.

What to kick out: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, should be on your “out” list for 2025. Research shows that . Another important area to focus on is cybersecurity. Failing to use basic security measures, such as two-factor authentication, can leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks.