Why New Year’s Resolutions Often Fail and What to Do Instead
Happy new year folks!
Rhea Freeman in an article here talks about the clichés tied to NYR.
This is a summary of the tact.
As January rolls around, conversations inevitably turn to New Year’s resolutions. For some, it’s an exciting opportunity to dream big, but for others, like me, it prompts a sigh of resignation. It’s not that I don’t want people to aim higher or improve themselves, but the truth is, resolutions, as they’re typically made, don’t work.
As a business coach and mentor, I’ve seen firsthand how poorly structured resolutions crumble under their own vagueness. Saying you’ll “eat less chocolate,” “lose weight,” or “get fitter” without a plan is like trying to drive to a destination without a map. The intent is there, but the execution is shaky at best. And let’s face it, telling people their resolutions are destined to fail isn’t exactly the best way to win friends.
The problem lies in the way resolutions are framed. Statements like “lose weight” or “spend less time on my phone” are open-ended and lack clarity. What does “less” mean? Is it cutting down screen time by five minutes or an hour? Does losing weight mean dropping a pound or a dress size? Without specifics, resolutions become little more than wishful thinking.
The solution is simple: treat resolutions as goals, and structure them accordingly. In the business world, the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound—is a tried-and-true method for setting effective objectives. Applying this to resolutions transforms vague aspirations into actionable plans.
Take “getting fitter” as an example. What does fitness mean to you? Is it running a marathon, doing 20 push-ups, or simply climbing stairs without gasping for air? Defining your goal gives it direction. Next, make it measurable—track your progress with milestones. If your goal is to run a marathon, set a timeline and track weekly runs. Most importantly, assign a deadline to keep yourself motivated.
This approach also helps mitigate setbacks. Suppose your goal is to lose 10 pounds by April, but you cave and indulge in a chocolate binge. That doesn’t mean your goal is a failure—it just means you had an off day. Specific goals with clear timelines give you the flexibility to adjust course without feeling defeated.
I’m not advocating for abandoning self-improvement. Quite the opposite—I encourage people to take their goals seriously or skip them altogether. Resolutions framed as clear, actionable goals not only stand a better chance of success but also foster self-compassion. Life isn’t perfect, and January is a notoriously difficult month. Between dark days, post-holiday blues, and financial stress, even the best intentions can waver—and that’s OK.
If resolutions feel like a trap, there’s always another option. Tell those curious (or nosy) friends that you’re perfectly content as you are, that resolutions clash with your values, or that your plans for self-improvement are none of their business. Just be prepared for the raised eyebrows.
Ultimately, the best way to start the year is with intentionality and clarity. Whether you call them resolutions or goals, structure them wisely. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being purposeful.
Go for it!
