HOW TO SET RESOLUTIONS YOU'LL ACTUALLY KEEP

Here's a guide to becoming the best version of yourself in 2025.

I’ve always loved the New Year. There’s something vibrating about the chance to start fresh, set goals, and dive into manifestation practices or vision boards. But as someone who tries it every year, I know how often resolutions fail to stick. Research from U.S. News & World Report shows that 80% of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned. So, how can you ensure you’re part of the 20% that successfully achieves their goals?

Each year, we proclaim, “New year, new me!” but how do we turn that hopeful phrase into lasting change for 2025—our year to thrive in health, happiness, and career growth? The key lies in changing the way we approach goal-setting. Drawing from my experience helping others stick to their resolutions, I’ve compiled 12 strategies to make 2025 the year you accomplish everything you’ve set your mind to.

1. Define Your “Why”

Resolutions without purpose lack staying power. Ask yourself why your goal matters. For instance, rather than simply aiming to “go to the gym every day,” consider the deeper reason—whether it’s to build strength, boost confidence, or improve your health. Identifying the underlying motivation will provide you with a stronger sense of purpose and drive.

Spend time reflecting or journaling about how achieving your goal will enhance your life. When motivation wanes, remind yourself of your “why” to keep moving forward.

2. Break Goals into Smaller Steps

Ambitious goals like “run a marathon” or “read 100 books” can feel daunting and lead to procrastination. Instead, divide them into smaller, actionable steps. For example, if reading 100 books in a year is your aim, set a monthly target of 8–9 books and weekly reading milestones. This makes the larger goal manageable and keeps you on track.

When big goals are broken into smaller ones, every milestone achieved adds momentum, creating a snowball effect of motivation.

3. Plan Ahead

Preparation is essential for success. Treat your goals as you would an important appointment by setting yourself up for success in advance. If you’re committed to morning workouts, prepare your gear the night before. Similarly, meal prep or organize your kitchen to make healthy eating more convenient. When your environment aligns with your goals, you’ll find it easier to stay consistent.

4. Shake Things Up

If you’re aiming for change, sticking to old habits won’t get you there. Identify any behaviors that might be holding you back and adjust your routine. For instance, if you spend hours on social media in the evening, use that time to work on your resume or connect with professionals on LinkedIn. By reprioritizing your time, you can make meaningful strides toward your goals.

5. Schedule Check-Ins

Regularly evaluate your progress. Whether it’s weekly, monthly, or quarterly, check-ins allow you to assess how close you are to achieving your goals and make adjustments if needed. For example, if your resolution is to save $5,000 by the end of the year, track your savings monthly and tweak your budget if necessary. These checkpoints ensure you stay focused and motivated.

6. Partner Up

Find a friend or loved one to share your journey with. Accountability buddies can offer encouragement, share tips, and help you stay on track. Whether it’s attending a workout class together or having regular check-ins about your goals, working as a team can make the process more enjoyable and productive.

7. Surround Yourself with Inspiration

Immerse yourself in content and environments that align with your goals. Read books, listen to podcasts, or follow social media accounts that motivate you. Vision boards, affirmations, or motivational quotes placed in visible spots can also keep your goals top of mind. The more you engage with inspiring resources, the more excited you’ll feel about achieving your resolutions.

8. Track Your Progress

Journaling is an effective way to monitor your journey. Documenting your daily successes, challenges, and reflections helps keep your goals in focus. Whether you prefer a notebook, planner, or app, recording your progress provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps you accountable.

9. Have a Backup Plan

Life doesn’t always go as planned, so it’s essential to stay adaptable. If you miss a workout or don’t feel like eating your usual healthy meal, have alternative options ready. For example, a 30-minute walk or a quick home workout can replace a missed gym session. Flexibility prevents small setbacks from derailing your progress.

10. Incorporate Goals into Your Routine

Your goals should fit seamlessly into your life. Choose healthy foods you enjoy and workouts you find fun rather than forcing yourself into activities you dislike. Small adjustments, such as meditating while your coffee brews or doing stretches during meetings, can make a big difference over time.

11. Celebrate Small Wins

Focus on the progress you’ve made rather than what’s left to achieve. Recognize daily victories, like eating a healthy breakfast or taking a quick walk. Celebrating small steps builds confidence and keeps you motivated to keep going.

12. Stay Flexible with Your Approach

Sometimes, plans need to shift. Focus on the overarching purpose of your goals—whether it’s feeling more confident, advancing your career, or improving your health—and be willing to adapt. Taking breaks or indulging occasionally doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Balance is key to long-term success.

By following these strategies, you can set yourself up for a transformative 2025. Remember, resolutions aren’t about perfection—they’re about progress and creating a life you love.