Big Mistakes People Make Around New Year’s Resolutions

The new year is upon us. As it is a time for new beginnings filled with fresh ideas and goals, it is also an opportunity for self-reflection. What do we want most, and what are we willing to do to achieve it? What were our accomplishments in the past year, and where did we struggle? What do we desire in the upcoming year, and what do we wish to leave behind? Somehow, the start of the year gives us all permission to ponder these questions. And with that, we set out to establish our “New Year” resolutions.

My personal opinion? I hate them—but with good reason. Hear me out. Years ago, when my daughters were little, I would go to the community center almost every morning to drop them off for a class or preschool. It was hard enough getting them into the car and out again, pulling out the stroller, managing my pregnancy, and dealing with whatever else came my way just to get them there on time. But January was the month I dreaded the most. Chicago winters in January aren’t pleasant to begin with, but then I had to contend with everyone’s New Year’s resolutions too.

Within the community center was a fitness center. Do you know what that means? The parking lot was always full in January, packed with people who had decided this was the perfect time to start exercising. Poor mothers like me were left to endure the bitter cold and snow, parking far away (if a spot could even be found) and trekking to the building as though we were crossing a tundra. In my head, I silently cursed every single one of those people, knowing that by March, the parking lot would be empty again. I knew many would give up.

Okay, maybe that was a little harsh… but in my defense, I wasn’t a nutritionist or health coach back then. I was a mother simply trying to survive. Still, I was onto something. Even then, I realized that setting a simple goal or acting on it alone wouldn’t get anyone to their destination.

Setting goals is a multifaceted process that requires addressing the complexity of our needs while evaluating how much effort we are truly willing to invest in achieving our desired outcomes. It involves assessing, identifying, and tracking progress, while also embracing accountability, sustainability, and a mindset shift. Failure, though inevitable, should be seen as a stepping stone to success, not a reason to give up. Change is undeniably challenging, as both the brain and body instinctively resist it. Often, change occurs when the pain of staying the same surpasses the fear of the unknown. However, this pain doesn’t have to be physical—mental and emotional struggles can profoundly impact our well-being. Alternatively, you might simply feel a deep hunger for transformation. Regardless of the reason, remember this: motivation and drive spark the journey, but a well-crafted strategy ultimately leads to success.

1. Setting Unrealistic Goals: Many people aim too high or set vague, unachievable targets, such as "lose 50 pounds in two months" or "never eat sugar again."

Solution: Break your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Instead of aiming to lose 50 pounds quickly, aim to lose 1-2 pounds per week through sustainable changes.

2. Not Having a Plan: Simply stating a resolution without creating a concrete plan often leads to failure.

Solution: Outline specific actions. For example, if your resolution is to exercise more, plan which days you’ll work out, what type of exercise you’ll do, and how long your sessions will be.

3. Relying on Motivation Alone: Motivation fades, and many people give up when their initial excitement wears off.

Solution: Focus on building habits instead of relying solely on willpower. Consistency is key.

4. Lack of Accountability: Without someone or something to hold them accountable, many people lose track of their resolutions.

Solution: Share your goals with a friend, join a group with similar objectives, or hire a coach to keep you accountable.

5. Being Too Hard on Yourself: One setback can feel like a complete failure, leading many to abandon their resolutions entirely.

Solution: Practice self-compassion. View setbacks as learning opportunities rather than reasons to quit.

As you approach your goals this year, remember that success is not about perfection but persistence. Resolutions can be a powerful tool for self-improvement when approached with the right mindset and strategy. Reflect deeply, plan thoughtfully, and embrace the journey—setbacks and all. This year, instead of focusing solely on the destination, commit to enjoying the process of becoming the best version of yourself. After all, the long game requires commitment, focus, and a willingness to grow, one step at a time.