Research says that about 45% of the population make one or more resolutions at the onset of each New Year. Some of the top resolutions involve weight loss, exercising more, stopping smoking or drinking or other "bad" habits. Also popular are resolutions to manage finances better.
Psychologically speaking, the end of a year generally moves us to self-reflect. We think about what was good about the year. The moments that were trying or hard - and all of the moments in-between. The beginning of a New Year can represent a fresh clean slate, where we start anew. It can be a time of new found hope and motivation.
While a lot of people who make New Year's resolutions generally find them hard to keep, research shows that making resolutions can be useful. People who make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't make any.
While a lot of people who make New Year's resolutions generally find them hard to keep, research shows that making resolutions can be useful. People who make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't make any.
I like to set realistic goals for myself each year. Some are personal, like exercising more and eating better. Others are professional, such as researching a new subject or presenting at a conference. Of course, I don't achieve all these goals. But for me, I know that thinking about change leads me toward change. And that's a good way to start the year.
What about you?
Do you use the New Year as a benchmark?
Reference:
Norcross, J.C.; Mrykalo, M.S. & Blagys, M.D. (2002). Auld Lang Syne: Success predictors, change processes, and self-reported outcomes of New Year's resolvers and nonresolvers. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(4), 397-405.
Reference:
Norcross, J.C.; Mrykalo, M.S. & Blagys, M.D. (2002). Auld Lang Syne: Success predictors, change processes, and self-reported outcomes of New Year's resolvers and nonresolvers. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(4), 397-405.
