As everyone flips the calendar to 2026, billions begin to embrace their newly-set goals, commonly themed around fitness, screen-time, finances and overall self-improvement. For some, they feel as though creating unrealistic goals could eventually lead to shame and unnecessary pressure on themselves. However, many think that the clock striking midnight on January 1 signifies a fresh start for self-improvement.
Reaching for the stars in the new year isn’t anything new; New Year’s resolutions are a tradition that date back to the Babylonians, who would participate in a two-week celebration and promised to repay small debts to their gods around mid-March. These customs were passed throughout history and evolved to what people know today as resolutions.
Although these traditions have reached present-day, a handful of people aren’t as convinced to keep goals like the ancient civilizations.
Staff Writer Abby Cipoletti, who has many goals to achieve this year, feels that motivation throughout the year is the key to success.
“I feel like people are motivated at the start, and then they fall off. Instead of falling off, they should think about the things they didn’t do last year, and it can push them to complete their resolutions,” Cipoletti explains.
Change can be challenging. Nonetheless, embracing the new has a number of benefits to make everyday life just a little easier.
Why do people quit their New Year’s resolutions so easily? The most common reason is because their goals become too vague or unrealistic. The initial excitement fades away and the realization of actually completing the goal becomes clear. Instead of a broad aspiration, make the goals specific. Having a measurable goal can boost motivation and can build a positive habit out of the goal.
To keep goals upheld, it is important to find ways to stay motivated. Writing down resolutions in a journal or in a visible place can be a constant reminder of how much work has been put in. Keeping track of goals can also help people stay focused and assist them in understanding what makes them go off track.
Co Editor-in-Chief Cadi Wright discusses, “Setting a monthly goal, or a rewards system, would be beneficial. If you complete your goal in January, you get a reward, for example.
Whether people decide to make New Year’s resolutions or not, understanding how to execute a goal effectively can be useful for future resolutions. The Hiller Staff is confident that all will complete their goals efficiently and productively!
