By Poorvi Roopesh

Every year thousands of people make new year’s resolutions, setting goals for themselves to reach throughout the year. According to a 2022 poll by YouGov, “37% of Americans said they had a goal or resolution they wanted to achieve in 2023.” The concept of new year’s resolutions dates back 4000 years. Ancient Babylonians recognized the start of their calendar year and farming season by making promises to repay their debts, and ancient Romans pledged good behavior in the coming year. Even years later we still participate in these traditions.

A new year’s resolution is a personal commitment to reach a goal or make a positive change during the year.  According to Dr. Barb Lesniak, executive director of social sciences at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) said, “Most clients made resolutions tied into physical or mental wellbeing, like exercising or meditating regularly. “The Forbes Health/One Poll survey showed that some resolutions were more common than others. The most popular goals included improving fitness, at 48%, Then followed by improving finances at 38% and enhancing mental health at 36%. Many people also focused on losing weight and improving diets.

Anvitha Koganti (11) said, ” I want to stay more focused and I want to be more consistent with my work and I think having new years resolutions are important because it helps you stay focused and motivated to carry out a goal.

Blessy Peter Leonard Paul (11) said, “I want to focus on staying organized in my classes and I want to read a new book.”

People set New Year’s resolutions for a fresh start. They do it to improve themselves and grow. Many people set new year’s resolutions because, a new year feels like a clean slate or a rest button . Resolutions are often driven by the need to improve. Participating in setting new year’s resolutions would help you achieve personal goals, giving you direction and purpose. Other times resolutions are set because of social pressures since everyone participates in coming up with new year’s resolutions.

Often times many new years resolutions fail because change is difficult and it’s the number one reason people fail to follow through on their resolutions. Most people make resolutions with the best of intentions but soon find it takes a lot of commitment, and effort to change. This is why it is important to make small reasonable goals that lead up to a bigger goal to help you follow through with your resolution.

New year’s resolutions can help you stay motivated throughout the year. They offer a sense of hope and a fresh start, motivating people to set goals for better health, finances, and personal growth. With manageable goals and strategies people can stay consistent with their resolutions and achieve anything they want to!