New Beginnings or False Starts? The Truth About New Year's Resolutions

It’s that time of the year – again.  The holiday celebrations are over, and the decorations are coming down, only to be stored for the next season. As the New Year approaches, I find myself reflecting on 2024 and what I’ve accomplished and what I would like to get done for 2025. Most of these entail business type goals as I typically avoid anything of a personal nature (something I will be changing for 2025).  I also have my annual shredding party that consists of shredding papers older than seven years.  I think of this as throwing my own News Year’s party!

Getting back to the point, it is true that many of us embrace the tradition of setting resolutions—personal commitments to self-improvement or achieving specific goals in the coming year. These resolutions are more than just a ritual; they represent hope and the desire for positive change. Whether it's adopting healthier habits, learning new skills, or improving relationships, New Year's resolutions provide a structured opportunity for growth and reflection.

Resolutions can vary widely depending on individual goals and life circumstances. Popular choices often include committing to a fitness regime, dedicating time to reading more books, learning a new language, or improving financial health through better budgeting and savings plans. All excellent ideas for adopting resolutions. The key is to choose resolutions that are not only meaningful but also realistic and measurable. Use SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) goals as a way to measure your success.  For example, rather than simply resolving to "lose weight," setting a goal to "exercise three times a week" provides a concrete plan that is easier to follow and track.

Will setting goals ensure success in keeping resolutions?  Despite the best intentions, statistics reveal that a significant number of resolutions fall by the wayside. Studies indicate that while about 60% of people make New Year's resolutions, only about 8% achieve them. Many resolutions fade by February, largely due to overly ambitious goals or a lack of planning. Success is more likely when goals are specific, achievable, and supported by a clear and gradual plan. 

The most common reasons for abandoning resolutions include setting unrealistic goals, lack of a support system, and waning motivation over time. I am guilty of setting unrealistic goals by setting too many of them and not focusing on the top three goals to accomplish.  To increase the likelihood of success, it’s important to set achievable milestones and celebrate small victories along the way. Use a vision board to outline your goals and milestones. Or write them down in your planner to keep in front of you.  Maybe you want to put one or two on a Post-it note for your bathroom mirror.  Additionally, sharing goals with friends or family can provide encouragement and accountability.  How will you ensure you reach your resolutions?

Deciding whether to set a New Year's resolution is a personal choice. For some, the start of a new year is a powerful motivator that can lead to significant personal growth and achievement. For others, setting intentions or goals throughout the year might be a more effective strategy. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to pursue personal improvement and satisfaction in a way that makes sense for one's own life and timeline.

 While not all New Year's resolutions are met with success, the act of setting them is a hopeful and proactive step toward personal enhancement. Whether you choose to make resolutions at the start of the year or set goals more sporadically, the focus should always be on realistic expectations and finding joy in the journey toward achieving them.  What resolutions are you setting this year and how will you achieve them?  Let me know by sending me an email!

Wishing you and yours a very happy and prosperous New Year!

Until next time!

Deborah Griffiths

Website: www.brokentoboldness.com

Email: deborah@brokentoboldness.com