This isn’t my first rodeo — I’ve been around the block a few times. As a millennial who’s no longer quite as young as I used to be, I’ve learned a thing or two about New Year’s resolutions, mainly what not to do.
Gone are the days of wildly ambitious goals that sound inspiring on Jan. 1 and feel impossible by Jan. 15. I now know better than to make an outrageous resolution that practically guarantees failure — like promising myself I’ll hit the gym every single day. Let’s be honest, that’s wishful thinking at best.
These days, life looks a little different. As a wife and mom of two teenagers, my schedule is full, my energy is finite and my priorities have shifted. So instead of setting the bar unrealistically high, I’ve learned the power of keeping it low — and manageable.
This year, my New Year’s resolution is simple: wear lip gloss every day. It may be small, but it’s achievable, and it makes me feel put together even on the busiest days. Sometimes growth isn’t about doing more; it’s about choosing goals that actually fit the life you’re living.
Did you know that making New Year’s resolutions can significantly boost motivation and self-awareness? According to researchers Edward Locke and Gary Latham, setting specific goals at the start of a new year helps people reflect on past behaviors and envision positive change. Researchers Hengshen Dai, Katherine Milkman and Jason Riis write that resolutions can create a psychological “fresh start,” making individuals feel more hopeful and committed to improvement. This sense of renewal often encourages healthier habits, such as exercising more or managing time better.
Did you know that New Year’s resolutions can also improve self-discipline when they are realistic and well-structured? According to the American Psychological Association, studies suggest that people who set clear, measurable goals are more likely to track progress and maintain consistency. When resolutions are broken down into smaller goals, they can build confidence over time and reinforce positive behavior change. In this way, resolutions act as a stepping stone to larger goals rather than a single, overwhelming promise.
Did you know that despite their benefits, most New Year’s resolutions fail within the first few months? According to U.S. News & World Report, research indicates that nearly 80% of resolutions are abandoned by February. One major drawback is that people often set overly ambitious or vague goals, which can lead to frustration and disappointment. When expectations are unrealistic, failure may negatively impact self-esteem and motivation.
Did you know that another downside of New Year’s resolution is the pressure they can create? Elliot Birkman notes that social and cultural expectations around self-improvement may cause stress or guilt when goals are not met. Instead of fostering growth, resolutions can sometimes promote an all-or-nothing mindset. Experts suggest focusing on flexible, value-based goals rather than rigid resolutions to reduce pressure and encourage long-term well-being.
In the end, New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be dramatic to be successful. Sometimes real growth looks less like burpees at dawn and more like shiny lips by noon. If consistency is the goal, pass the dumbbells — and hand me the lip gloss.
Happy New Year!
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