When I first started writing on this blog daily in 2009, every post was a struggle. I worried that people might not like them. I worried that I’d get negative comments and feel embarrassed and want to curl up in shame. But after a few months of pushing through that fear, I learned two important things. 1) The occasional negative email or comment didn’t kill me. 2) The more often I posted, the easier it got. Four years and 1500+ entries later, I’ve got momentum on my side.
If you’re starting the year with big resolutions, remember that the 100th day will be easier than the first. Keep going to the gym, raising your hand in class or making time with your kids and eventually it will become a habit rather than a hurdle. That’s when momentum becomes your friend.
Here are 20 of my most popular posts from 2013 (based on Google clicks). If you put in the time, momentum is a good friend. Happy New Year.
1. Collegewise sold to The Princeton Review
2. Our Common App guide is (finally) on sale
3. Five ways to encourage younger students
4. How to respond to the Common App troubles
5. The Onion knows college essay clichés
6. Resources for high school counselors
7. Follow the habits of elite performers
8. For seniors struggling with decisions
9. The admissions magic bullet
10. “Poor me” essays
11. Don’t let email make you lazy
12. Where high school students have it great
13. It’s not about what you major in
14. Students don’t need a life passion
15. Will colleges see your Facebook profile?
17. Parents: start preparing kids for independence now
18. Play your part
19. Three application themes worth considering
20. Admissionzillas