With 2020 coming to a much anticipated close, the end of the year calls for goal-setting in hopes of an improved 2021. Not only is New Year’s a holiday, but a much needed fresh start. Some people want to focus on their physical health, mental health, or their health altogether. Others may set goals they want to keep to improve their life or set goals that they would like to accomplish. Although it is always a good idea to set goals for yourself and your life, New Year’s resolutions always end up being ditched or forgotten about entirely. 

  A resolution is a firm decision to do, or not do something, such as stop smoking, stop eating junk food, or go to the gym more often. Questions you should consider when planning resolutions- if this resolution is so important to you, then why are you waiting for a new year in order to start this habit? Is this resolution not an actual goal? Why are you not starting this goal now if you want this to happen in your life? These resolutions are often made in the midst of celebration and are not paid much mind afterward. When making these resolutions, it causes people to feel pressured into meeting these unrealistic standards that will end up being ditched eventually. Junior Myles Pettis said, “New Year’s resolutions only work if you are really committed to what you say you are going to.” The most reliable way to meet a resolution is to not even make one. These resolutions will be easier to achieve with time and patience. The best things come with time, and making resolutions force people to rush into things that they might not be ready for. Instead of a rock hard resolution, making a plan to reach a goal is more realistic. Real change comes when a preferred outcome is set and a commitment is made. 

  Resolutions do not improve accountability. It is almost nearly impossible to stick to a goal for a whole year. Instead, make a monthly goal every month. This way it is much easier to hold yourself accountable for all the progress that has been made. 

  Another thing to consider is how excited people were last year about the start of 2020. 2020 was a year like no other and brought uncertainty to many. Do resolutions even need to be a top priority right now? Resolutions are set to bring in new ideas and better ways to improve your life. After a year like we just had, uncertainty was a common theme throughout the year. Consider ditching the resolutions for something more useful. 

  Remember, 2020 was a hard year for all, and the last thing anyone needs is more pressure on them to improve their life. Appreciate what you have now, how far you have come, and what 2021 will bring. Happy New Year!