The New Year is here and many of us have set a list of resolutions with all the hope and determination of a fresh start. But how many times have those well-meaning resolutions fallen by the wayside before spring has even sprung? You’re not alone. Studies show that nearly 80% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions by the end of February.
You don’t have to be another statistic. With a few strategies, you can beat the odds and turn your resolutions into lasting habits. Whether you’re aiming to shed a few pounds, hit the gym more often, or simply feel healthier in your day-to-day life, let’s set you up for success.
There are numerous reasons why someone could struggle to stick with their resolutions. The most common reasons are:
- Too Vague: Saying “I want to get fit” is a great idea, but it lacks a clear plan. Without specific goals, it’s hard to know where to start.
- All or Nothing Thinking: You skip a workout or have a cheat day, and suddenly you feel like you’ve “failed.” This mindset can derail even the best intentions.
- No Support System: Tackling a goal alone is tough. Without someone to cheer you on, it’s easy to lose steam.
Here are some practical ways to make sure your resolutions last well beyond the first quarter of the year:
- Set SMART Goals
Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of “I want to lose weight,” try, “I’ll lose 10 pounds in three months by going to the gym three times a week and tracking my meals.” Breaking it down makes it manageable and measurable. - Start Small
Start with something you know you can stick to, like committing to a 15-minute walk every day. Once that becomes routine, you can build on it. - Focus on the ‘Why’
Why did you set this goal in the first place? Maybe it’s to have more energy to play with your kids or to feel more confident in your skin. Keeping your “why” front and center helps you stay motivated when the going gets tough. - Track Your Progress
Whether it’s a fitness app, a journal, or even a wall calendar where you cross off completed tasks, tracking your progress can be incredibly motivating. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate small wins along the way! - Build a Support System
Find a friend, family member, or group with similar goals. Whether it’s a workout buddy or a virtual accountability partner, having someone in your corner makes all the difference. - Be Kind to Yourself
Slip-ups happen, and that’s okay. What matters is how you bounce back. Treat yourself with kindness, and remember, progress is better than perfection.
Fun Fact: Did you know it takes about 66 days on average to form a new habit? That means by mid-March, you could be cruising on autopilot with your new routine—if you stick with it.
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be a momentary tradition. With a little planning, patience, and self-compassion, you can make 2025 the year you crush your goals and feel amazing doing it.
So, what’s your resolution this year? Whatever it is, you’ve got this—and I’m here to cheer you on every step of the way!
Jari Love is a certified trainer and creator of the successful scientifically tested Get RIPPED!® series. You can learn more about Jari Love at www.jarilove.com. You can follow her on Facebook at @JariLoveFitness and at @rippedjari on Instagram.
