New Year’s resolutions have become quite controversial in recent years. Some people say New Year’s resolutions pressurise us to change our body, career, personality and much more. However, other people enjoy the process of making goals and reflecting on the year gone by. It’s all about personal preference.
We struggle to achieve our new year goals
In 2019, it was estimated that only 7% of Americans stuck to their resolutions throughout the year. 19% stuck to part of their resolutions but did not achieve the full goal by the end of the year. Some New Year’s resolutions are unrealistic to achieve in one year, and people get discouraged from the enormous goal. The key is to make smaller goals that can be achieved over several months. For example, if you want to run a half marathon in the next year – you could set out a running training plan to help you.
What are the most popular New Year’s resolutions?
Statista conducted an online poll with over a thousand Americans to determine which new year’s resolutions are the most popular. Over half of respondents aimed to save more money in the new year, and 45% wanted to lose weight or get in shape. Saving money and losing weight are often at the top of our new year’s resolutions. However, all too often, we end up with an unused gym membership and an empty savings account. Oh well, we tried.
Travelling, reading and quitting smoking are also popular new year’s resolutions. Many people aim to spend more time away from technology and learning a new hobby instead.
We set unattainable goals
You should set SMART goals for the new year if you believe in the whole resolution tradition. These goals need to be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timed. You need measurable goals throughout the year to help you achieve the bigger outcome. For example, if you want to become healthier in the new year – you could reduce your alcohol intake. Try a few alcohol-free substitutes to help you adjust, and join a challenge like Dry January.
Reflect on the year gone by
Before you jump into the popular new year goals, sit down and reflect on the year gone by. What went well and not so well? You might have spent more time on your career, and as a result, less time on yourself. You could make a goal to learn a new hobby that has nothing to do with your profession. For example, knitting is a fantastic skill that can help you relax and switch off without technology.
You don’t need to transform your entire life in 2022. But you could make some smaller goals to help you achieve more in the new year.
I like making goals, but I don’t necessarily make them at new year. I tend to make them when I feel it is the right time. I think you are more likely to stick to them.
I’ve been trying so hard to stick to mine this year – and I’ve fallen at a few hurdles but still going strong!
Yes! But not worth beating yourself up over if you don’t follow em. Just keep getting back up!
I make them but never stick to them!
This is such an interesting subject. I guess the best thing is to experiment with goal-setting by making a record of your resolutions and reviewing it later, to find out which approach works best for you.