Why we make new year resolutions – and then fail them
Jan 1, 2023, 13:44 IST
- One of the first things that we think about as the year begins are resolutions for the year.
- It is important to set realistic goals so that you can feel accomplished.
- Here are some new year resolution suggestions for kids, teens, and middle-aged individuals.
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The new year has begun, and like every year, the world is busy celebrating and planning their resolutions for the year. Of course, both are synonymous with every new year, but we're looking at new year’s resolutions. We love to make resolutions about our lives, whether to eat healthy, workout, or spend more time with our loved ones. However, most of us lack the discipline to stick to our resolutions, with only a few actively keeping them up for the whole year. People are inherently lazy, hence make excuses for their own behavior and try anything they can to avoid accepting responsibility for their actions.
New year resolutions can benefit your mental and physical health or help you live a happier and better life. Some popular resolutions include working out, eating better, managing time, and maintaining your finances. These can all help improve your quality of life, and can be rewarding long term. Set new year resolutions with realistic goals so that you can feel accomplished.
People can feel the satisfaction of keeping their word and having a clear purpose in life. They can start to get rid of habits that make them feel bad, such as overeating or smoking. They can also feel accomplished, knowing they are working towards something instead of just going through the motions. It can be difficult, but it is all worth it in the end.
We can make these resolutions any time of year, so there's a little bit of marketing involved in having them, primarily in January. You don't need to wait for the new year to make resolutions. Any time is a good time to reflect on your goals and set new ones. It's a good idea to set resolutions when you want to achieve a particular goal or change your life.
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So if you're looking to make a change, why not set some new year's resolutions?
It can be a long-term goal, such as “I want to lose weight,” “I want to learn to play the guitar,” or something more short-term, such as “I want to have more time for myself.” Setting a goal can be an effective way to create positive change in your life, and it can be a way to celebrate the new year with optimism and hope.
Some typical new year resolutions include losing weight, saving money, getting organized, and spending more time with family and friends. You may also set a goal to reach a specific professional or educational milestone, such as getting accepted into a graduate degree or landing your dream job.
Sticking to resolutions isn't easy, but possible
We are very good at making promises to ourselves, but not always good at keeping them. In fact, research shows that as many as 80% of people will forget about their new year's resolutions within three months. One common reason is that the resolution was too ambitious and not realistic.
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For example, if you set a goal to lose 40 kilos by the end of the year, that might be too much to accomplish in just 12 months. Others may find it difficult to change old habits and feel like they're failing if they don't achieve their resolutions. As a result, you might lose motivation or get distracted by other things.A way to avoid failure is to set small goals that are within reach and to focus on one goal at a time. This will help you stay motivated and on track as you work toward your bigger goals. Also, remember that your new year's resolutions can be achieved with a little bit of preparation and dedication.
Those struggling with procrastination should aim to start smaller tasks immediately and work their way up to larger tasks. They should also break down large tasks into manageable chunks and set specific deadlines. In addition, it can be helpful to use time-management techniques such as setting alarms, writing down to-do lists, and prioritizing tasks.
Another technique that can be helpful is to focus on the positive outcomes of completing a task rather than on the negative consequences of not completing it. Completing tasks also increases confidence and motivation.
Someone who is struggling with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) should try to maintain a consistent daily routine. This includes getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet. In addition, they should plan to stay on top of their responsibilities, such as paying bills on time and completing assignments. They should also stay organized by using calendars, lists, and alarms. In addition, they should seek out ways to minimize stress and create a positive, calming environment. Finally, giving yourself time and space is essential to learn new skills and strategies to help you manage your ADHD symptoms.
Most common resolutions
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Some of the most common new year's resolutions are to lose weight, quit smoking or drinking, and get more exercise. Other common resolutions are to eat more healthy, make more time for friends and family, and get organized or clean the house. Many also resolve to start a new hobby, travel more, make new friends, create a business, etc.Making a resolution can be a powerful way to change your life, and make this year better than the last. Here are some new year resolution suggestions for kids, teens, and middle-aged individuals-
Kids
It's great to help your kids set goals for the new year. It teaches them that setting goals is empowering and challenges them to think about what they want to accomplish. It also allows them to impart life lessons about how to succeed and fail. Because they will fail sometimes, and that's how they learn that it’s okay to fail. Failure is an opportunity to try again and learn from one’s mistakes.
Parents should help them set realistic resolutions that can be achieved and help them plan to reach those resolutions. Setting good resolutions for the new year can add value to their lives and help them grow into responsible adults. However, they should start small and not overburden themselves.
Some great new year’s resolutions for kids include:
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- Eating healthier: Kids can resolve to eat more fruits and veggies and less junk food. They can also resolve to drink more water and reduce sugary drinks.
- Spending more time outdoors: Kids can resolve to spend more time outside, playing in nature and getting fresh air. This can be great for their mental and physical health.
- Getting more sleep: Kids can resolve to go to bed earlier and get more sleep each night. This can help them feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Teens
The benefits and need for making new year's resolutions remain the same for all age groups. But teenagers are a sensitive group and need monitoring – while setting them free to explore themselves. Some recommendations for teenagers are-
- Stop hanging out with the wrong crowd, and start spending more time with people who positively influence your life.
- Stop smoking/vaping or drinking.
- Share feelings with parents and siblings.
- Stay up on your grades and homework, and finish school strong.
- Keep your room clean and organized.
- Stop fighting with your parents over small things.
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise more.
Middle age
The middle-aged are the most stressed out group and need specific goals to bring a positive change in life-
- To start investing or managing finances better.
- Spend more time with family and friends.
- Start exercising and eating a healthy diet.
- Become more active in your community (volunteer, join groups, etc.).
- Get more connected with your spirituality (meditation, prayer, nature, etc.).
- Spend less time on social media and interact more in the real world.
- To find ways to stay optimistic even during tough times.