One of the most common things to do when the new year starts is to make resolutions for changes that we hope to make. This may be to improve health, organize finances, create better relationships or simply live a life with more peace. Although resolutions are common, keeping them is not always successful.
According to surveys, about 31 percent of Americans make a resolution for the new year. For some, a resolution is a goal, and younger people are more likely than older people to set goals. Research shows that 43 percent of those under the age of 45 make resolutions while 21 percent of those older than 45 do so.
The most common resolutions revolve around health and wellness. Many say they will exercise more while others plan to eat healthier. Many choose these resolutions to lose weight and improve their physical health. The second most common is to save money or to improve finances. A third is to travel more in the new year.
Breaking down those resolutions, 79 percent resolved to be healthier in the new year while about six percent planned to travel more. Around 38 percent wanted to improve their finances while 36 percent hoped to improve mental health.
Despite those good intentions, the facts are not promising. Research indicates that 80 percent of all resolutions are abandoned by February. There is some hope, however, as about eight percent of resolutions continue throughout the year. There are those who call the second Friday in January “Quitter’s Day” as that is when motivation to keep resolutions trails off.
Even more discouraging, one poll showed that only 23 percent stay on track with their resolutions after one week and by mid-January have already given up.
Experts suggest not calling your changes “resolutions” but instead look at them as goals. Create goals that are approach oriented, such as walking 30 minutes per day or drinking eight cups of water per day. These are more successful than avoidance goals, such as “stop eating junk food” or “stop spending money on things I don’t need.”
There is some indication that setting attainable weight loss goals have more success than vague goals that are harder to measure. Instead of tying those goals to weight loss, set goals that focus on a healthy lifestyle. According to experts, 75 percent of those who set realistic health-related goals are more successful.
There are valid reasons why resolutions fail. For one, many people set goals that are too broad or unrealistic. They also fail to track their progress or adjust when things are not working. Accountability is also key to the success of resolutions. Many also realize that their motivation has faded once the year actually begins.
Avoid these pitfalls by enlisting the support of others. Find a resolution buddy who is working toward a similar goal. Keep in mind that goals should be adjusted over time and it is better to focus on small, manageable habits rather than huge changes. Setting smaller, realistic goals offer a higher chance of success.
The statistics do not mean setting resolutions is not a good plan. Many believe that setting them improves the year and gives them confidence they can succeed. It is best to look at a resolution as a way to reflect on where you want to change in the new year. Setting goals, rather than resolutions, that are attainable and small, have a higher chance of success than broad, hard-to-attain goals that may lead to frustration.
