FEATURE / ANALYSIS DO PEOPLE KEEP NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS? By Diiyi William-West 26 | <strong>Accomplish</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>
FEATURE / ANALYSIS new Year resolutions have become a common tradition for many individuals all over the world. As usual, as the clock struck midnight on December 31st, many people began to eagerly make promises to themselves, vowing to improve their lives in various ways. However, the question remains: do people actually keep their New Year resolutions? The answer to this question may not be a straight ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. Therefore, it’s necessary to consider the reasons why some individuals successfully achieve their New Year resolutions while others fail, asserting that with the right mindset and approach, anyone can accomplish their goals for the year. One of the primary reasons why people fail to keep their New Year resolutions is the lack of commitment and determination. Many individuals make resolutions without fully understanding the effort and dedication required to achieve them. For instance, someone might resolve to lose weight but fail to commit to a consistent exercise routine or a healthy diet. Without strong willpower and perseverance, it becomes easy to abandon one’s resolutions when faced with challenges or setbacks. From observation, successful resolution keepers possess a strong sense of determination and discipline. They understand that achieving their goals requires consistent effort and are willing to make sacrifices to reach them. These individuals set realistic and achievable resolutions, breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps. By doing so, they create a roadmap that guides them towards success, making it easier to stay motivated and focused throughout the year. Another factor that contributes to the failure of New Year resolutions is the lack of accountability. Many people keep their resolutions to themselves, without sharing them with others or seeking support from friends and family. Without external accountability, it becomes easier to give up on resolutions when faced with obstacles or temptations. Additionally, without a support system, individuals may feel isolated and lack the encouragement needed to persevere. In contrast, successful resolution keepers understand the importance of accountability and support. They share their resolutions with trusted friends or family members who can provide guidance and encouragement along the way. By involving others in their journey, they create a sense of responsibility towards their goals, making it harder to abandon them. Furthermore, having a support system allows individuals to celebrate their achievements and seek advice during challenging times, increasing their chances of success. Lastly, a significant reason why people fail to keep their New Year resolutions is the lack of a specific plan or strategy. Many individuals set vague resolutions without outlining the necessary steps to achieve them. For example, someone might resolve to “be more organised” without specifying how they plan to do so. Without a clear plan, it becomes challenging to track progress and stay motivated. In contrast, successful resolution keepers develop a detailed plan of action. They break down their resolutions into specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. By setting clear objectives and outlining the steps needed to achieve them, they create a roadmap that guides their actions throughout the year. This approach allows them to track progress, make adjustments when necessary, and stay motivated by witnessing their achievements along the way. In conclusion, the success of New Year resolutions largely depends on an individual’s commitment, accountability, and planning. While many people fail to keep their resolutions due to a lack of determination, accountability, and a specific plan, successful resolution keepers possess the necessary mindset and approach to achieve their goals. By understanding the reasons behind both success and failure, anyone can increase their chances of keeping their New Year resolutions. So, as the New Year approaches, let us approach our resolutions with determination, accountability, and a well-thought-out plan, ensuring a higher likelihood of success. DIIYI WILLIAM-WEST AUTHOR’S BIO More fondly known as DDWEST, he has several years of media practice experience spanning magazines, newspapers, television and radio; laying emphasis on maintaining standards in media practice. He practised and lectured Public Relations for nearly a decade before going into leadership consulting and real estate consultancy. <strong>Accomplish</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> | 27
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