(GoHealthier.com)
It’s that time of year again when gyms fill up, people swear off booze and sugar and attempt to start the new year with big plans in place. But then reality hits like a ton of bricks, and slowly, people remember just how difficult working out really is, that booze and sugar are great ways to numb from the pain of the world, and suddenly, all of their New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside. But what are the exact reasons why so many people struggle to stick to New Year’s resolutions? Here are 10 common reasons:
1. Unrealistic Goals
• Resolutions often involve ambitious changes (e.g., “lose 50 pounds in two months” or “exercise every day”), which can feel overwhelming.
• Unrealistic expectations set people up for failure.
2. Lack of Specificity
• Vague resolutions like “get healthy” or “save money” lack actionable steps.
• Without a clear plan, it’s hard to measure progress or stay motivated.
3. Lack of a Strong “Why”
• Resolutions are often based on societal pressure rather than personal motivation.
• Without a deep personal connection, the drive to achieve the goal wanes.
4. Poor Planning
• People don’t create a roadmap for achieving their goals.
• Without a step-by-step plan, it’s easy to fall back into old habits.
5. All-or-Nothing Thinking
• A single misstep (e.g., skipping a workout) can lead to abandoning the resolution entirely.
• This mindset leaves little room for flexibility or recovery from setbacks.
6. Habits Are Hard to Change
• Resolutions often involve breaking deeply ingrained habits, which takes time and effort.
• People underestimate how challenging behavioral change can be.
7. Lack of Accountability
• Without external support or someone to check in, it’s easier to give up.
• Accountability increases commitment and follow-through.
8. No Immediate Rewards
• Many goals (e.g., weight loss, saving money) involve delayed gratification.
• People lose motivation without seeing quick results.
9. Competing Priorities
• Life gets busy, and other responsibilities often take precedence.
• Resolutions fall by the wayside when they don’t align with day-to-day demands.
10. Burnout
• Starting too strong or trying to overhaul multiple areas of life can lead to exhaustion.
• A lack of pacing makes long-term commitment difficult.
How to Improve Success Rates
• Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
• Focus on one or two resolutions instead of many.
• Break goals into smaller, manageable steps.
• Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
• Build a support system for accountability.
• Embrace setbacks as part of the process, not as failures.
Here is to you sticking to your resolutions this year…and if not, then there is always next year.
Copyright 2024, GoHealthier.com
