New Years Resolutions Don’t Work!

As we welcome the New Year, many of us feel the pressure to set resolutions. It’s become a tradition, declaring bold plans to “get fitter,” “save more money,” or “become a better person.” But how often do these resolutions really stick?

Studies show that most resolutions don’t last beyond February, with a 2023 survey revealing that only 9% of people feel they fully achieve their goals.

Why? Because resolutions are often too big, too vague, or rooted in self-criticism, leaving us feeling defeated rather than empowered.

So, this year, let’s try a different approach, one that’s kinder, more aligned with who we are, and much more likely to help us grow.

Why Resolutions Fail

1. They’re Overwhelming - Goals like “completely change my diet” or “run every day” can feel exciting at first but quickly become overwhelming. When we set ourselves unrealistic expectations, we’re far more likely to give up entirely.
2. They Make Us Feel Worse - Resolutions often come from a place of “fixing” ourselves. We decide to exercise more because we feel we’re not good enough as we are, or we resolve to spend less because we’re ashamed of our financial habits. This kind of self-criticism rarely motivates lasting change.
3. They Don’t Fit Who We Are - James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, explains that lasting change happens when we align our actions with our identity. Instead of aiming to “run a marathon,” think about becoming a person who values health and consistency. Resolutions fail when they feel like a battle with yourself, rather than a reflection of who you want to be.

A Kinder Way to Start the Year

Instead of setting rigid resolutions that leave you feeling like you’ve already failed by February, consider these alternatives:

1. Start Small - Big goals are built on small steps. Rather than aiming to go to the gym every day, try going for a 15-minute walk twice a week. Small wins build confidence and momentum and you can build upon them.
2. Focus on What Matters - What do you value most? Is it connection, health, creativity, or calm? Let your values guide your choices rather than chasing goals that don’t truly matter to you.
3. Be Kind to Yourself - Change doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend. Research by Dr. Kristin Neff shows that self-compassion isn’t indulgent—it’s essential for long-term motivation and growth.
4. Ground Yourself with Simple Tools - Techniques like EFT tapping or Havening can help reduce stress and keep you centred as you navigate the ups and downs of life. These simple, empowering tools can make it easier to stay on track.

Go Gently

This year doesn’t have to be about “fixing” yourself or making drastic changes. Instead, it can be about small, meaningful steps that align with who you are and who you want to become.

If this approach resonates with you, we’d love to support you at Beam Therapy. Our sessions combine techniques like Havening and EFT to help you create lasting change, not just for this year but for the years to come.

Book a free 30-minute discovery call today and let’s explore how we can help you take those first gentle steps toward a calmer, more empowered 2025.

Book a call with Lianne here  https://calendly.com/lianneweaver/discovery-meeting