The Ins and Outs of 2024
Scolling through your phone is out, but making calls on it defintely is. Photo via Jessi Dworkin '26
If you’ve been on TikTok in the last month or so, you probably have stumbled upon the "In and Out" trend – a way for people to create more mindset-oriented goals while highlighting the importance of recognizing the good and weeding out the bad. Whether you’ve made your own list or simply scrolled right past it, here is some inspiration in the form of my personal “ins” and “outs” of 2024.
In: Local coffee shops
We all know coffee tastes better when the barista knows your name and order by heart. Just a quick car ride away from the Marist College campus is The Crafted Kup, self-described as “Poughkeepsie’s only true coffeehouse.” If you’re craving a sweet treat to go with your beverage, Kelly's Bakery is right across the street.
Out: Excessive screen time
No, you do not need to get off your phone completely and ditch all social media forever. But do take breaks! Lowering the amount of time spent staring at a screen is proven to improve both physical and mental health.
In: Saving money
Nobody wants to open their bank account app and see a single digit. If you’re anything like me, impulse spending is most certainly an issue. This year, saving money is in – as is loud budgeting. Trust me when I say that it’s going to bring you even a little peace of mind.
Out: Overworking yourself
The lines between putting in the effort to meet your goals and burning out can be blurry. While doing good work in your academic and professional life is important, it is equally beneficial to practice the power of balance. Taking care of yourself and eliminating stressors are just some of the strategies to get you started on the path to better habits, according to the Harvard Business Review.
In: Phone calls
Say goodbye to phone phobia, Gen Z – it’s time to face our fears. Gone are the days when you typed out a full-length script before calling your pediatrician. This year, we are making phone calls, and we are making them with confidence.
Out: FOMO
No more living in the past or thinking about what could have been. Things happen, and life moves on. If you don’t believe me, believe the science, which has linked the fear of missing out to bad moods, fatigue and stress. Making a conscious effort to overcome those dreadful feelings is always available for you.
In: Journaling
“Fear of Missing Out on Journaling,” anyone? The one in six people who actively journal are reaping the rewards, from reducing anxiety to regulating emotions. Improve your mental health with an inexpensive act of self-care that you are sure to love.
Out: People pleasing
It’s hard to stay true to yourself when you are constantly changing your behavior and the things you do based on what others want. Set healthy boundaries, learn to say no and make yourself a priority this year.
In: Reading
Reading is and always has been trendy. From mystery and poetry to BookTok and Goodreads, genres and tools abound to help you find your next great read. After all, you’ve made it to the end of this article, so you’re already your first step of the way there.