Many individuals create resolutions for the new year and plan to stick with them throughout the year. However, it has become evident that, in most scenarios, these resolutions are fleeting and often fail quickly. Several underlying factors contribute to the failure of these resolutions, with approximately 80% of people having either failed or abandoned their New Year’s resolutions by February, leaving a miniscule 9% sticking with their goals long-term as stated on verywellmind.com.
One major reason as to why resolutions fail so quickly is the unrealistic nature of these resolutions, or the fact that they are far too vague. verywellmind.com explains that goals that lack specifics, such as a plan “be healthier,” make progress more difficult to account for and properly measure. Due to this, it often leads to frustration and lack of motivation.
Another major reason as to why these resolutions are so fleeting is that many overrely on motivation, as according to forbes.com, motivation naturally decreases over time, especially after the initial excitement of the new year fades. When many individuals depend on pure willpower alone, any minor setbacks or failures can cause them to feel like complete failure, leading many to abandon their goals so hastily as a whole.
However, several tips and pieces of advice can act as a guide to help manage a resolution throughout the year. For instance, individuals should be expected to focus on smaller and more realistic goals than extreme, influential changes. This allows room for more flexibility and the ability to set a clear goal. Being able to view any ounce of progress as gradual can also help change these resolutions into long-term routines and, eventually, be incorporated into a daily schedule instead of acting as a temporary promise.
For more information, visit verywellmind.com and forbes.com.
