You’re ready. In fact, you’re positively glowing -- the result of some much-needed R&R and that tan you baked like a brisket all summer long. You have a notebook for every class, you laid out your first-day-of-school outfit, and you mapped out the best route from class to class, so you don’t accidentally sit through 10 minutes of advanced interpretive dance (that was embarrassing).
You’ve never been so organized, so why not harness this preparedness (because it may not last) to make some resolutions and ensure it’s the best school year yet? For some inspiration, look no further than your favorite blockbusters. In partnership with Juicy Fruit, we rounded up some back-to-school resolutions drawn from classic teen films. After all, aren’t these movies what we model our entire educational experience after in the first place? Happy New School Year!
1. Live In The Moment
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” taught us all something about being more spontaneous. It even foreshadowed the flash mob before it became a sensation … spooky.
This year, hijack a mic and start lip-syncing to “Twist and Shout” … metaphorically speaking. Make sure you enjoy a little Bueller-style, spur-of-the moment fun with friends. Plan not to plan out every single day, so the spectacular now won’t just pass you by.
2. Seize The Day
School is back in session, but the world is still your oyster. Embrace the carpe diem spirit of the impassioned boys of “Dead Poets Society.” Follow their lofty example and resolve to take advantage of every opportunity to experience the extraordinary.
Stand up, “Oh Captain! My Captain!” (Just make sure your desk is sturdy.)
3. Take Some Chances In Love
Ah, to be young and in love! It’s actually pretty… awkward. Just ask the guy holding a boombox over his head.
But “Say Anything” shows that it does pay to take risks and be brave when it comes to matters of the heart, no matter how emotionally (or physically) uncomfortable it may be. Find inspiration in this movie’s title and, this school year, don’t let your feelings go unsaid. Pro tip: handwritten notes always go over very well.
4. Play Hard
In “Remember The Titans,” the team doesn’t need a victory before they break out in dance. They play for love of the game, and no matter how steep the competition is, they show it’s important to just have fun with your teammates and give it your all.
Whatever you play this year, do remember those Titans and play hard -- on the field and off.
5. … And Play Nice
All those teenagers dealing with oh so many feelings … school can be a lot like the jungle -- complete with predators and peril.
Rivalries and cliques are par for the course, but “Mean Girls” captures how wild the antics can get. This year, cut out the drama and resolve to play nice -- especially on social media. Because it’s way more fun to make friendships than break them -- #YesNewFriends.
6. Give Yourself A Makeover From The Inside Out
You cut your hair (finally!), you’re rocking an adventurous flash tattoo, and you can’t wait for the compliments to roll in.
Back-to-school makeovers can be about more than looks. This year, why not take a clue from “Clueless” heroine Cher Horowitz and stage a mini-makeover from within. Use the new school year to jump-start positive habits -- your friends and peers will be sure to notice the new and improved you! Reminder: it’s not a habit if you only do it spo·rad·i·cal·ly.
7. Dance Like Nobody's Watching
The title character of “Napoleon Dynamite” captured America’s hearts with his quirky, offbeat style -- proving that we, as unique individuals, are pretty awesome -- even if our peers don’t necessarily recognize it. (Though he could be nicer to his llama.)
Bust out some sweet moves, and discover how much fun it is literally dancing to the beat of your own drum. It’s OK sometimes to do whatever you feel like. Gosh!
8. Blaze Your Own Trail
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” shows that all of us -- even the quiet introverts and self-professed wallflowers -- can forge our own exciting paths and accept all the love we deserve.
This year, spread your wings and prepare to fly alongside the awesome friends who are there to support you along the way. Adventure awaits! Don’t be afraid to stand out … just don’t do it from the back of a moving pickup.
9. Free Yourself From Labels
After spending one Saturday detention together, the high schoolers in “The Breakfast Club” learned to come together despite their differences for an unforgettable good time.
Go back to school resolved to be a label Bender. And who knows? You just may discover unlikely friends (or perhaps an unlikely side to your multifaceted self) and run the halls with your newfound motley crew. Make it an epic year!
Say Yes to Fun and create unforgettable memories this school year with Juicy Fruit.