Are New Year's Resolutions Realistic?

New Year resolutions are an age-old tradition where people across the world undertake personal challenges to better themselves. For many, the change in the calendar symbolises a fresh start, and an opportunity for change. It is the perfect moment to both look back and reflect, and to look ahead and plan for change.

Of course, things are easier said than done, and psychological research indicates that a significant proportion of people fail their new year’s resolutions. In fact, about 70% only last a week, and just 19% for two years or more, according to the University of Scranton. While this may seem disheartening, understanding the reasons behind such failures can provide insights into how resolutions can be more effectively pursued.

One of the biggest mistakes people make with their resolutions is being too vague. Pledging to “eat healthier” or “exercise more” sounds like a good thing, but are not really measurable. To overcome this, try using the SMART technique. This means setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. So instead of promising to get fitter, try something like running every day, until you can run for 1 hour. With this structure in place, the likelihood of success increases greatly.

Furthermore, the more open people are with their resolutions, the more likely they ate to succeed. The knowledge that other people will see us either succeed or fail can be a powerful motivator. Social media and specific online forums can be the perfect place to find support and motivation from people with similar goals. You can even download an app for every resolution imaginable to help track your progress and see how far you’ve come, how much weight you’ve lost, how much money you’ve saved, and so on.

Ultimately, New Year’s resolutions can work if the individual is truly motivated. While the prospect of changing for the better can be tempting, following through can be hard work. Specific goals, a well-thought out plan, and a network of social support will all be incredibly beneficial in succeeding. Understanding the potential setbacks and pitfalls can make individuals more prepared and less discouraged if they encounter difficulties. With this little bit of extra effort, individuals may find greater success with their resolutions, leading to long-term positive outcomes in their lives.

If you are interested in losing weight or making other changes, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.