Are New Year’s Resolutions Realistic?

 The “New Year, New You” temptation is alluring, and we all tend to try to reinvent ourselves as the calendar page flips from December to January. Sadly, studies show that almost half of our resolutions are abandoned by the end of the first month of the year. Researchers blame three major overreaches for this gloomy forecast:

* Thinking Too Big— Resolutions that require large investments of cash or time are unlikely to succeed. Activities that require specialized tools or supplies may find themselves abandoned due to outsized expenses or underestimation of a steep learning curve. 

* Motivation— If the “why” behind the resolution isn’t deeply personal, one’s determination may waver. Internet-popular suggestions may not be right for you. To be lasting, the commitment to break or start a habit must come from deep inside the individual. 

* Readiness For Change— Setting a goal is like manifesting a future version of yourself. Need-based objectives succeed more often than calendar-based ones. If you feel ready to make a change, aim for modifications not transformations. 

But fear not, because there are lots of ways to set goals for the new year and stick to them. With an eye to the major reasons resolutions fail, we can set realistic goals for the future and maintain long-term success.

* Keep it Reasonable–Start with small, uncomplicated resolutions. Keep expectations realistic, whether discussing weight loss, language fluency, financial literacy, musical ability, culinary aptitude, gym attendance, social competence, or mental health pursuits. Choose paths with a gentle on-ramp and plenty of rest stops along the way. weather, short days, financial and family stressors, and unmet expectations.

* Make it Personal— ability to steer our attention and energy toward the positive aspects of the season. It takes practice but pays huge dividends.

* Maintain Accountability— Some apps do this by having the user log in regularly. Or, you can engage a friend who is on a similar journey to help keep you on track (and commiserate when you step off path), or even hire a professional coach or tutor to help you preserve momentum and interest. 

Whichever road you choose, make sure the goal, timing, pace, and support are uniquely right for you to help you maintain momentum toward your objectives.

Written by Dr. Carly Wilbur, UH Pediatrician and PSI Medical Director.