In honour of the dawn of 2015 (which I realise was over three weeks ago, but as long as we’re in January I feel this is still relevant) I did a little google search to find out what some of the most frequently unsuccessful New Year’s resolutions are. The results were unsurprising, so I decided to share my thoughts on why these resolutions usually end in failure. Below are five of the most famously unsuccessful New Year’s resolutions, plus some more effective (and attainable) alternatives:
1. Lose Weight
Is there a more pointless and consistently unsuccessful resolution in existence? Resolving to lose weight is a one-way ticket to self-loathing (ETA January 6th). Spoiler alert: being thinner won’t automatically make you happier, healthier or more successful. It’ll just make you thinner. What will make you happier, healthier and more successful is to learn to accept yourself exactly as you are right now.
Alternative: I resolve to respect and appreciate my body regardless of its shape and size.
2. Get Organised
Although I love the concept of becoming a more organized human being, this resolution is just too vague to ever be successful. Additionally, we need to remember that individual personalities thrive in different environments – what constitutes organization for one person may look like absolute chaos to another. Define what organization means to you, and the steps that’ll get you there.
Alternative: I resolve to always fold and pack my clothes away as soon as they are clean and dry.
3. Spend Less, Save More
This is an admirable goal, but without a more specific plan of action, it’s not likely to be realised. Take a critical look at your spending habits, and find an area where you can realistically cut back. Have a plan for the money you’ll save.
Alternative: I resolve to cut out one costly habit (smoking, drinking, daily latte, etc.), and to put the money I would’ve spent on said habit into a savings account. This money will go towards my child’s college fund.
4. Get Fit and Healthy
I believe that one of the main reasons why most resolutions fail is because they focus on the desired results rather than the necessary steps that will lead to those results. Rather than making a vague pledge to get healthy, choose to cultivate one habit that’ll have a positive impact on your health.
Alternative: I resolve to go for at least one half-hour walk outside every week.
5. Enjoy Life to the Fullest
Everyone wants to enjoy life more, but making an ambiguous resolution like this really isn’t the way to get there. Think about what changes you need to make in order to have a more joyful experience on this earth, and commit to practicing one consistently in the coming year.
Alternative: I resolve to keep a journal listing one thing I am grateful for every single day for the coming year.
I hope you all have a wonderful, prosperous 2015, and that you achieve all your goals for the coming year!