Preparing for 2026
The start of a new year feels like a fresh page — a psychological reset that invites us to imagine a better version of ourselves. That’s why so many people set New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: most of those resolutions don’t last. Only 8–9% of people actually achieve their New Year’s goals
Even though resolutions have a bad reputation, goal‑setting itself is one of the most powerful tools for personal growth. Goals give you:
Direction — a clear sense of where you’re heading
Motivation — something meaningful to work toward
Structure — a roadmap instead of vague wishes
Progress markers — milestones that keep you energized
Confidence — every small win reinforces your belief in yourself
The problem isn’t the idea of resolutions — it’s the approach most people take.
Why Resolutions Fail
Resolutions are great intentions with little to no results. They fail because:
Goals are too vague or too big
They’re rooted in shame or pressure
People rely on motivation instead of systems
The unconscious mind resists change
Progress A feels too slow
Many common resolutions (exercise, saving money, eating healthier) produce slow, subtle results. That lack of immediate payoff kills motivation early.
How to Set Goals You’ll Actually Achieve
Here’s how to turn the idea of resolutions into a system that works.
Start with reflection
Before you look forward, look back. Reflect on the previous year and answer these quetions:
What energized you this year?
What drained you?
What did you learn about yourself?
What do you want more (or less) of?
What went well?
What didn’t you finish?
Reflection gives your goals meaning and helps to identify areas of your life that you may need to address.
Choose goals that matter to you
Not what you “should” want. Not what others expect. Goals rooted in personal values are far more sustainable.
Use the SMART framework
SMART goals are the best way to create a goal, maintain your momentum, and accomplish what you want. SMART goals are:
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time‑bound
Each goal you create should meet the criteria above. “Get fit” becomes “Walk 30 minutes a day, five days a week, for three months.”
By using this framework you create a specific plan for every one of your goals and gives you the ability to accomplish that goal.
Break big goals into small steps
Ambitious goals are great — overwhelming ones are not. Break them into weekly or daily actions gives you a better chance to complete them. For each big goal set milestones through out the time frame and work on a portion of that goal.
Write your goals down
Putting goals on paper increases commitment and clarity. Over 76% of people that write down their goals will achieve them.
Build accountability
Share your goals with someone you trust or track your progress publicly. Accountability turns intentions into habits.
Review and adjust regularly
Life changes. Goals should too. Weekly, Monthly and quarterly check‑ins keep you aligned and motivated. Schedule time in your calendar each week to work on your goals. A weekly review is a great time to monitor you progress and make changes if necessary.
New Year’s resolutions fail not because people are weak or unmotivated, but because the traditional approach sets them up for failure. When you create a plan for each of your goals you can join the small percentage of people who actually achieve their goals.
The new year isn’t about perfection. It’s about clarity, intention, and the courage to start.
Share in the comments a goal that you plan on working on this year. Make sure it meets the criteria of the SMART goal framework.