As the clock strikes midnight, heralding the arrival of a new year, millions around the world are filled with a sense of renewal and hope. This pivotal moment often ignites a compelling urge to make New Year’s resolutions and promises to ourselves to improve aspects of our daily lives. 

Whether it’s committing to a healthier lifestyle, pursuing new career goals, or dedicating more time to personal hobbies, these resolutions have become a deeply ingrained tradition in many cultures. However, as common as this practice is, it frequently sparks a debate: Are New Year’s resolutions genuinely beneficial? Or are they merely a setup for inevitable disappointment?

The Case for New Years Resolutions

The truth is the idea of a “clean” or “fresh” slate has helped, arguably, millions achieve their goals. Meanwhile, others fall off the bandwagon only a few weeks in. But let’s focus on the good stuff first. Here are a few ways setting goals at the onset of a new year can be beneficial:

• Increased motivation: With many others setting similar goals, we feel part of something and might feel more motivated to succeed. This can be particularly true if we join a community with similar goals, which can hold us accountable to our own.
• Encouraged health habits: Many people have similar goals: Losing weight, quitting alcohol, eating healthier, etc—all of which foster a healthier life. This time can serve as a reminder of where we can make improvements and drive us to do so.
• Annual check-in: Setting out a goal at the start of the year provides a set starting point and potentially long-term check-in point. This can make charting your progress that much easier.

However, New Year’s doesn’t have to be the only “clean” slate or time we set goals. So, let’s look at the flip side.

The Case Against New Years Resolutions

The unfortunate truth is that many people fail to live up to their New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps the bar is set too high or the stress and pressure are too much. Whatever the case may be, it can be very difficult to go from one of the most indulgent times of the year to all-in health-conscious habits. 

Unfortunately, there’s also the aspect of a “one-size-fits-all” approach for some of the most popular goals, meaning many people are already set up to fail. So, what can you do instead?

Finding a Middle Ground

Should you set New Year’s resolutions? This depends! 

And a word to the wise: Again, New Year’s isn’t the only time to make healthy changes in your life.

However, if you intend to make changes at the start of the year, start by determining your goal. But… Don’t go all in.

Create baby steps toward your goal. If you want to get “fit,” maybe this means trying out the gym twice a week to start rather than every day. These steps will help you avoid the overwhelm, frustration, or the constant need for perfection. Healthy changes take time, and it’s okay to move slowly. The key is small bits of progress. It’s not a race. It’s about making permanent lifestyle changes that can last a lifetime.

If you’re interested in taking your health and wellness to a whole other level this New Year, why not drop into Posture & Wellness? 

Book your FREE discovery call. Discover how your local Finsbury Park chiropractor can help you! BOOK NOW.