The clocks have struck midnight, crowds have cheered, confetti has fallen, and the new year has begun. 2025 has arrived and with it new opportunities and fresh starts for individuals across the globe. Creating New Year’s resolutions is a popular tradition practiced by people of all ages, but according to a CBS News article, only 9% of Americans actually complete the goals they set for themselves at the start of the year. In fact, the majority of Americans with New Year’s resolutions give up by the second Friday in January, earning it the title “National Quitter’s Day.”
Starting the year with a clear goal is simple. Resolutions often revolve around becoming a better person, getting healthier or learning something new.
“My New Year’s resolutions are to run a 10k once a month, be able to do a pull up and increase my bench press,” Cali Mueller,‘25, said. “I also want to maintain my 4.0, learn how to cook more meals and prepare to serve a mission for my church. Most of my goals are geared towards becoming better in all areas of my life and preparing for college.”
Setting goals may seem easy, but without a strong plan to achieve them, it’s difficult not to fall into the “Quitter’s Day” trap. Mueller is staying accountable with the help of her friends.
“I will achieve my goals by being consistent and sharing them with others who will help motivate me,” Mueller said. “I also plan to reflect at the beginning of each month on how I did previously. Then, I can assess my progress and see how to improve.”
Resolutions are personal and can vary from large ambitious goals to smaller, simpler ones. Some people set goals focused on improving their physical health while others prioritize mental health.
“I want to go out and have more experiences this year,” Gaby Wiley, ‘25, said. “I just want to make more memories for myself. I feel like I spend more time at home than I need to.”
No matter how small a goal may be, it still requires a detailed plan for success. Wiley plans to motivate herself by changing her perspective.
“I’m going to start saying yes to more plans and reminding myself that going out can be just as, or even more fun, than staying in,” Wiley said. “I believe I’ll be successful because now that I’ve set it as a goal for myself I’ll be able to intentionally pursue it.”
It is understandable to make mistakes or fail to keep resolutions for the entire year, but regardless, it’s important to try.
“In 2023 and 2024 I made a resolution to journal every day, and while I didn’t write every single day, I still made a habit of it which was the reason I made the resolution,” Mueller said. “I filled two, almost three, journals. It really helped improve my life as I was able to reflect on the successes and challenges of each day and plan for the next.”
In order not to fall prey to “Quitter’s Day,” create an achievable goal and follow through by outlining a plan for how to be successful. It may feel difficult, but the fulfillment of achieving goals and bettering oneself will be worth it.
