Why Most New Year’s Resolutions Fail

It all boils down to 5 reasons…

New Year’s resolutions are a tradition that many people participate in at the start of each new year. They often involve setting goals or making changes to improve one’s life in some way. While the intention behind these resolutions is often good, the reality is that most of them fail.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Research shows that only about 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions. So why is it that most New Year’s resolutions fail? Here are a few reasons:

1. Lack of Specificity: One of the main reasons that New Year’s resolutions fail is that they are often too vague. For example, a standard resolution is to “lose weight,” but this goal is too broad and lacks specificity. Without a clear plan or target, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and lose motivation. Instead, try setting a specific goal, such as “lose 10 pounds in the next three months by exercising three times a week and eating a balanced diet.” This goal is specific and measurable, which makes it easier to track progress and stay motivated.
2. Lack of Realistic Goals: Another reason New Year’s resolutions fail is that people often set unrealistic or too ambitious goals. For example, if you’ve never exercised regularly before, it may not be realistic to set a goal of running a marathon in the next six months. Instead, try setting smaller, more achievable goals that you can build on over time. This will help you stay motivated and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
3. Lack of Support: Achieving a goal can be problematic, especially if you’re trying to do it independently. It’s essential to have a support system in place to help you stay on track and motivated. This can include friends or family members who will encourage and inspire you or a professional coach or mentor who can provide guidance and support.
4. Lack of Consistency: Achieving a goal requires consistent effort over time. However, it’s easy to get sidetracked or lose motivation, especially if you’re trying to make a significant change. To stay on track, it’s essential to have a consistent routine and to prioritize the goal. This can include setting aside specific times for working on the goal, setting reminders, or finding ways to make the goal a part of your daily life.