By Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER WISE
By this point in the year, many of us are already feeling it—the quiet pressure of New Year’s goals colliding with real life. Classes are moving fast, inboxes are full, and the to-do list never seems to get shorter. Somewhere between the deadlines and responsibilities, it becomes easy to forget one very important item.
You.
One practice I return to again and again is simple, but powerful: I write myself into my to-do list. Not as an afterthought, and not only when everything else is finished—but intentionally. Because you are not your productivity. You are a whole person, deserving of care, rest, and joy.
For me, writing myself into the list looks like reading articles or books purely for fun—no notes, no outcomes required. It looks like leading a women’s group that fills my cup as much as it gives back. It looks like rest, movement, and shared laughter while exercising alongside my husband and daughter. These moments don’t slow me down; they sustain me.
When resolutions start to feel tested, this is often the moment when we’re tempted to push harder and do more. But growth doesn’t always come from adding. Sometimes it comes from honoring what you need to stay grounded and whole.
As students, leaders, and lifelong learners, you carry a lot. You show up, you work hard, and you aim high. That matters. But so do the moments that remind you who you are outside of your achievements.
So today, and every day, I encourage you to do this one small thing: write yourself into your to-do list. Your future self will thank you.
