New Year, New Start! But Keep It Real

As the calendar flips to a new year, many people are hopeful for a fresh start. Whether it’s getting healthy, spending less time on screens, or being more organized, making a New Year’s resolution has become a tradition. But why do so many people struggle to keep them?

Surprisingly, some people do succeed. A Marist Poll found that 59% of people who made a New Year’s resolution in 2024 kept it—at least for part of the year. Even more encouraging, about 40% said they maintained their goals throughout the year. Men were slightly more likely to follow through, with 64% keeping resolutions compared to 55% of women.

So, what makes the difference between success and giving up?

Experts in behavior therapy say it comes down to how resolutions are made. Often, people set goals casually or unrealistically. They say things like, “I’ll lose 10 pounds every month,” or “I’ll exercise for an hour every single day.” While these goals sound strong, they can be too ambitious.

When a person sets a goal that’s hard to reach and then slips up, they might feel discouraged—and quit altogether.

Instead of overreaching, experts suggest starting with a clear plan. Ask yourself:

• Why is this goal important?
• How will it improve my life?
• What might cause me to get off track—and how will I respond?

Being prepared is key. For example, if your goal is to put down your phone more often, you might choose to turn it off during dinner or leave it in another room during family time. The small step makes a big difference—and it’s easier to stick with.

Also, be patient. Most changes don’t happen overnight. Remind yourself regularly of the benefits of reaching your goal. If possible, tell someone about your resolution so they can help keep you accountable.

So as 2026 begins, go ahead and make a resolution—but keep it realistic. You don’t have to change your whole life in a day. One smart, simple step at a time can lead to lasting change.