Skipping New Year’s Resolutions This Year (And Why You Might Want To Too)

Various studies reveal that the most common New Year’s resolutions revolve around health/fitness and finances. These are also at the top of my list as I focus on living a healthier lifestyle and building financial security for the next phase of my life—whether it’s building emergency funds, contributing to my grandchildren's education, traveling more, ensuring a comfortable retirement, or even remodeling my home (or possibly moving).

However, this year, I did not make New Year’s resolutions. Quite frankly, I never follow through. Research shows that only about 8% of people manage to keep their resolutions for more than a month. After two months, 21.9% of people give up; after three months, 22.2%; and after four months, 13.1%. By the end of the year, only 1% of resolutions last the full 12 months (CBS News). The stats aren’t great.

So, what’s the point of resolutions if they rarely stick? Instead of setting myself up for failure, I choose to make realistic and specific goals that I can begin working toward—whether it's this month, in the summer, or whenever feels right. Depending on the goal and who it impacts, I’ll either hold myself accountable or ask someone else to do it for me. This year, I’m focused on making behavioral and habit changes that will have a lasting, positive impact on my progress.

Ultimately, it’s not about one big resolution. It’s about creating the right habits and realistic goals that can help me reach the life I want—step by step.

If you’re tired of setting New Year’s resolutions that don’t stick, why not try a different approach this year? Set realistic, specific goals that you can actually follow through on, no matter the time of year. 

Let’s focus on progress, not perfection, this year. Share your goals in the comments or connect with someone who can help keep you accountable! Prioritize small, sustainable changes that align with your values and the life you’re working toward. And most importantly, hold yourself accountable—whether it’s through a supportive friend, a mentor, or a simple reminder system. Let’s make this year the one where real change happens!