They Don’t Really Work. Here’s What to Do Instead
New Year’s resolutions have been around forever, but that doesn’t mean they’re effective. Just days into January, the #resolutionfail hashtag starts trending on social media, highlighting the struggle many face in sticking to their goals.
The Reality of Resolutions
Research from the University of Scranton reveals that roughly 200 million Americans make New Year’s resolutions at least occasionally. However, the success rate is alarmingly low:
- 25% quit in the first week
- 33% don’t make it past the first month
- Less than 50% stick with their resolutions after six months
- Only 8% actually succeed
More Than Just Numbers
Some industries, like fitness centers, thrive on our failure. They sell year-long memberships knowing most people won’t consistently show up. But this issue isn’t just about statistics—it’s about real people and their dreams.
According to Scranton’s research, the top 10 resolutions in 2015 were:
- Lose weight
- Get organized
- Spend less, save more
- Enjoy life to the fullest
- Stay fit and healthy
- Learn something exciting
- Quit smoking
- Help others in their dreams
- Fall in love
- Spend more time with family
These goals touch on health, finances, relationships, and personal growth—the things that matter most. Yet, so many of us start strong, only to lose momentum and give up.
Why I Stopped Making Traditional Resolutions
I’ve been there—setting ambitious goals, only to get busy, fall behind, and eventually abandon them. That’s why I no longer make traditional New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I use a structured goal-setting system that ensures long-term success.
How to Make Resolutions That Actually Stick
Rather than limiting yourself to just one or two resolutions, try using a system that works. An effective goal-setting process should incorporate these five essential elements:
1. Genuine Possibility
Unless you believe you can reach your goals, you’re likely to fail. Studies show that 39% of people in their twenties achieve their resolutions, compared to only 14% of those over fifty. Why? Repeated failures create limiting beliefs that discourage us from trying. Replacing those beliefs with empowering truths is crucial for success.
2. Learning from Past Experiences
Dragging past failures into the future is a major reason resolutions fail. To break this cycle, reflect on:
- What you wanted to happen
- What actually happened
- Why it happened
- What you can change moving forward
Acknowledging and learning from past mistakes empowers you to approach your goals differently.
3. Effective Goal Design
Vague goals like “Lose weight” or “Save more money” are doomed to fail. Goals must be:
- Specific (e.g., “Lose 10 pounds in three months”)
- Measurable (track progress over time)
- Achievable (realistic but challenging)
- Relevant (aligned with your values)
- Time-bound (have a clear deadline)
Well-structured goals increase the likelihood of follow-through.
4. Intrinsic Motivation
Without a compelling reason, motivation fades. Ask yourself why your goal matters. As my wife Gail wisely says, “People lose their way when they lose their why.” Finding strong personal motivation will help you stay committed.
5. Proven Strategies for Success
Many people fail simply because they lack the right tactics. Winning any challenge requires both strategy and action. Rather than relying on luck, study proven goal-setting techniques and apply them.
A Smarter Approach to Goal-Setting
Traditional resolutions often set us up for failure. Instead, using a well-designed, structured approach to goal-setting ensures real, lasting progress. If you’re serious about change, abandon the outdated resolution model and adopt a system that actually works.
Are you ready to make this year different? Start by setting goals that stick and see how much more you can accomplish!
