Every year, around December 31st, people all over the world start making resolutions for the upcoming year. They’re determined to create good habits, break bad ones, and start fresh. The most popular resolutions have to do with losing weight, exercising, and quitting smoking cigarettes. And yet, according to a study done by the University of Scranton, only 8% of people actually achieve their New Year’s resolutions. So why do so many people fail to reach their goals each year? Let’s explore some of the reasons.

Setting unrealistic goals.

One of the main reasons why New Year’s resolutions don’t work is because often we set unrealistic goals for ourselves. We think that they can completely change their lifestyle overnight and that’s just not possible. Gradual change is much more realistic and achievable than complete transformation. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, aim to lose 5-10% of your body weight over a period of 6 months rather than trying to achieve your ideal body weight in one month. Smaller goals are much more manageable and will increase your chance of success.

Giving up too easily.

Another reason why New Year’s resolutions don’t work is that we give up too easily when we encounter setbacks. Everyone has setbacks when trying to achieve their goals, but it’s important to not let them get you down. Instead of giving up when you have a bad day or week, view it as a learning experience and determine what you could have done differently. Then get back on track and keep going! Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither are healthy habits.

Trying to do too many things at once.

It’s easy to bite off more than you can chew when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. Trying to do too many things at once can lead to burnout and frustration, which will likely decrease your chance of success. It’s best to focus on one or two goals at a time so that you don't become overwhelmed and won’t be able to keep up with all of your commitments. It’s important to focus on one goal at a time so that you can really devote yourself to achieving it. Once you have reached your first goal, then you can move on to working on the next one.

How can you find ways to help make realistic new years resolutions with goals?

• First and foremost, it’s important to be realistic with yourself when setting goals. It’s better to start small and work up to larger goals than to set ambitious ones that you may not be able to achieve.

• Additionally, try setting short-term as well as long-term goals so that you can stay motivated and track your progress. You should also break down each goal into smaller, more manageable tasks that you can complete on a daily or weekly basis. This will help keep you focused and give you a sense of accomplishment as you finish each task.

• Finally, it can be helpful to have an accountability partner who can help you stay motivated and on track with your goals. Having a support system in place will make you feel more motivated and accountable for your actions, increasing your chances of success. Ask a friend or family member to be your accountability partner and have them check in on your progress periodically.

If your New Year’s resolution didn’t work out this year, it's okay! You can learn from the past and start fresh with a new goal or resolution next year. Just remember to keep your goals realistic, focus on one thing at a time, and don't give up when you encounter setbacks! Wishing you all the best in reaching your goals in 2023!