THE RESOLUTION TRAP

Why we fail and how to succeed.

- Santosh Pattanaik

As the calendar turns from one year to the next, millions of people resolve to reinvent themselves. Near the end of every year, the prospect of rising from the fog of holiday hustlebustle and to contemplate how to do better next year is welcomed by many, ignored by some and resented by others. From life-changing goals to small improvements in your day-to-day life, the resolutions can be a big motivating factor in changing our ways. These resolutions typically focus on self-improvement, personal growth, or achieving specific objectives over the coming year.

In fact, this practice dates back to some 4,000 years ago when the ancient Babylonians started making new year promises.

Well, have you been able to keep your New Year's resolution so far? If not, you are not alone. A 2023 poll from Forbes Health found most people give up resolutions after less than four months. According to the survey, just under 1 in 10 people (8 per cent) said their resolutions lasted a month, 21.9 per cent reported two months, 22.2 per cent reported three months and 13.1 per cent said their resolutions lasted four months. Only 1 per cent said they lasted for 11 or 12 months.

According to the Pew Research Centre, in 2024, 13 per cent of people dropped their resolutions by the end of January. Experts say by the end of February, almost everyone gives up. Why? Because resolutions often lack specificity, are fuelled by societal expectations, and are burdened by the weight of perfectionism. The mind, being the crafty negotiator it is, convinces us that if we can't do it flawlessly, why bother at all?