Resolutions Vs. Goals
What Percentage of People Fail at New Year’s Resolutions?
Studies suggest that 80-90% of people fail to stick to their New Year’s resolutions, with many abandoning them by mid-February.
Why Don’t Resolutions Work?
1. Lack of Specificity:
Resolutions are often vague, such as “get fit” or “save money,” making it unclear what success looks like or how to achieve it.
2. Unrealistic Expectations:
People set overly ambitious resolutions, leading to burnout or frustration when they don’t see immediate results.
3. No Clear Plan:
Resolutions typically lack actionable steps, leaving people unsure how to start or maintain progress.
4. All-or-Nothing Thinking:
Missing one day or making a mistake often leads people to quit entirely instead of adjusting and continuing.
5. Lack of Accountability:
Without a system of accountability, it’s easy to lose motivation or forget the resolution altogether.
Difference Between a Goal and a Resolution
A resolution is typically a statement of intent or desire, while a goal is a clearly defined objective with actionable steps and a timeline.
Resolutions:
• Focus on what you want to do (e.g., “I want to lose weight”).
• Often lack structure or measurable outcomes.
• Tend to be broad and harder to track.
Goals:
• Focus on what you will do (e.g., “I will lose 10 pounds by exercising three times a week and meal prepping every Sunday”).
• Are specific, measurable, and actionable.
• Include a plan and milestones to track progress.
Key to Success: Turn Resolutions into Goals
1. Make it Specific: Define exactly what you want to achieve.
2. Break It Down: Outline small, actionable steps.
3. Set Deadlines: Give yourself realistic timelines for each step.
4. Track Progress: Monitor achievements regularly.
5. Be Flexible: Adjust the plan if needed without abandoning the goal entirely.
By turning a vague resolution into a structured goal, you’re far more likely to succeed and maintain momentum throughout the year.
Join Our Goal Setting Workshop.