It’s that time of year again. We’re all boozed out, bloated and have the back-to-school blues (except not really, because I’m back at DIVA for a week, which is awesome). We’re writing our New Year’s Resolutions to get fit, work harder, drink less… Or, in my case, be a better journalist!

I always like to resolve to consciously work on my mental state and sense of myself (rather than to lose a stone or run a marathon before next Christmas). So this year I resolve to be more…

ADVENTUROUS

Last term at City was great for forcing me out of my comfort zone in terms of subject matter, writing practice articles for publications as diverse as Chemist & Druggist and Farmers Weekly. Now I want to be more adventurous with the media I use to present that content, particularly for Wannabe Hacks. I’ve already resolved to make more videos; I also want to experiment with audio and dig out my old SLR camera again.

CULTURED (lol)

Last term long days in the faculties left me too exhausted to do anything in the evenings but watch TOWIE, and too hungover on the weekends to do, well, anything… It’s left me feeling less than confident writing about art, film and theatre – which used to fill my social life and mental space. This year I’m devoting at least one day or evening a week to a Cultural Activity (capitals necessary). And no, Made In Chelsea doesn’t count.

CHATTY

My close friends would probably think this is a joke as I’m indefatigably chatty with them. No doubt they’re disappointed I’m not resolving to be quieter in 2012! But, believe it or not, I’m still oddly shy in new situations, which isn’t great in an industry built on contacts. I’ve got 3 weeks left of work experience (DIVA, followed by BMJ magazine) which is the perfect opportunity to flex my conversational skills.

So wish me luck for the new year! What are your resolutions?