The Evolution of Resolutions

A new year’s resolution can be defined as a commitment that an individual makes to a personal goal, project or the reforming of a bad habit. But do they work?
As we entered 2011, I contemplated how I could improve myself and it made me wonder, should we make just one or two resolutions and hope to succeed or make a lot so that we don’t get that feeling of guilt when we don’t achieve them all? People worldwide are breaking theirs as we speak so we shouldn’t beat ourselves up if and when we fail. In my opinion they should be short, sweet and easy yet effective but yes, it definitely is, easier said than done!
Looking at statistics, 52% of people begin the year feeling confident about achieving their resolutions yet only 12% actually do. Why? Is it lack of support or are we as a human race too stubborn to let others help us reach personal goals?
Resolutions can differ so much! Spend more time with family. Change the CD that’s been playing for months. Travel more. Become a footnote in history. Work harder. Love more. Even generally being a ‘better person’ is usually on many people’s lists. However, it is common sense to realise that if you are not happy when trying to achieve these goals, you won’t.
A friend of mine said to me: “I’m not perfect but after my new year’s resolutions I will be.” This is very optimistic but coming from a Journalist’s point of view, I could aim to give up chocolate, wine and coffee but, with those nights spent sitting at my laptop, would I even get through the first month? It’s debatable! So make sure you plan your goals around your career.
If I could give you my advice, it would be to learn from your past, live for the present and aim for the best future possible even if you are amongst the large group of us that have already failed at keeping these much needed but sometimes seemingly pointless resolutions. And I wish you the best of luck in the forthcoming year. •
Jess Christiansen