Why I skip resolutions, and what works instead

I’m a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach and I don’t personally do Dry January or set New Year’s resolutions. Why? Keep reading…

Quitters Day was 2 weeks ago on January 10th, marking the day most people give up on their New Year's resolutions. I find that resolutions fail, especially so early in the year, because they are often lofty and not backed by action. While a fresh start can feel enticing, these resolutions often falter due to their lack of specificity and accountability, leading to disappointment when you feel so far from the change you want to see.

Instead of setting vague, overwhelming resolutions, try this instead: 

1. Understand your WHY. Take time to reflect and gain self-awareness of your values, skills, strengths, and motivations. Define what you really want and how you want to feel. Knowing this will help you get clear on your next steps. 

2. Determine WHAT will align your actions with your intentions. Without this alignment, even the best intentions can miss the mark.

For example, one of my clients wanted to manage stress and prioritize self-care, especially before her hectic workdays. She signed up for yoga classes twice a week at 6am. Her reality, though, was anything but calming: the alarm blaring, a rushed commute, navigating a packed (and snarly) women’s locker room, bumping into others, and then heading straight to work—still sweating and frazzled. 

This yoga class, while well-intentioned, wasn’t aligning with her goal of de-stressing. We adjusted the approach. Instead of the intense 6am yoga class, she tried stretching at home followed by a peaceful walk around her neighborhood before work. It gave her the time to breathe, reconnect with herself, and move gently into her day. This change was far better aligned with her intention to de-stress, and the process showed her the importance of trial and error. Sometimes, you need to experiment to find what truly works.

3. Set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. This structure keeps your goals clear and manageable, making them more achievable.

4. Take small steps for big change. Break long-term goals into smaller, actionable habits. This way, progress feels more attainable.

5. Leverage accountability tools. Use your calendar, to-do lists, or systems you already rely on at work and social commitments. These can also support your personal goals.

My final challenge for you: Find contentment with the life you have today. Don’t wait for a promotion, a relationship, or a goal weight to be happy. You can still want to grow, change, and expand while recognizing your worth right now.