Every time the year comes to an end, most, if not all, of us tend to sit down and reflect on how the year has been and go ahead setting new goals for the coming year. I am not exempted in this. As I look back, there is much that I had set to achieve in the year 2024, and by the grace of God, I have achieved so much more than I anticipated. I remember one of the things was to add weight (Sounds awkward, right? I know…) and guess what, I am happy today.
I know you are tempted to think that it was so smooth for me. Nope, that was not the case! There were days that I enjoyed my comfort zone, ending up moving away from my goals. One of the quotes that inspired me in 2024 was one by Vince Lombardi, which says, “Most people fail, not because of lack of desire, but, because of lack of commitment.” Despite challenges and discouragement that I got along the same, I remained committed to my goals. It paid in the end.
New Year’s resolutions are a common tradition for many people worldwide. The start of a new year is often seen as a time to set goals and make positive changes in one’s life. However, despite their popularity, there is a myth surrounding New Year’s resolutions that they are often not successful, and that people quickly abandon their goals and return to their old habits.
I learned few lessons that was really instrumental for me. Here are a few reasons why most people fail to achieve their New Year set goals.
- Setting unrealistic or overly ambitious goals: For example, someone may resolve to lose a significant amount of weight or completely overhaul their lifestyle in a few months. While these goals may be well-intentioned, they are often not realistic or sustainable, and as a result, people may quickly become discouraged and give up on their resolutions.
- Lack of a clear plan or strategy for achieving the set goals. Without a clear plan or support system in place, it can be easy to lose motivation, revert to old habits or abandon your goals. It is important to set specific and measurable goals and have a plan in place for how to achieve them. This can include seeking support from friends, family, or a professional or breaking down large goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Keep in mind that sometimes the strategy may not work, and you might need to iterate your strategies to continue with the journey of pursuing your goals.
- Lack of accountability. It can be easy to make excuses or justify not following through on one’s goals, and without someone to hold one accountable, it can be easy to let these resolutions fall by the wayside. Enlisting the help of a friend or family member to hold oneself accountable or by working with a coach or therapist can increase the chances of success.
- Negative mindset or a lack of self-compassion. If one views failure as a personal flaw or lacks self-compassion when setbacks occur, it can be easy to become discouraged and give up on one’s goals. Shifting one’s mindset and being kind and understanding towards oneself makes it possible to stay motivated and on track toward achieving one’s goals.
While the myth surrounding New Year resolutions may be pervasive, it is possible to successfully achieve one’s goals and make positive changes in one’s life. You can do this by setting realistic and specific goals, having a clear plan and strategy in place, seeking accountability and support, and cultivating a positive mindset and self-compassion. With all these in place, there is a high chance of one overcoming the challenges and setbacks that may arise and achieving long-term success would possible. So, it is important to keep in mind that New Year’s resolutions are just a starting point, and it is up to you as an individual to make the necessary changes in your life to achieve your goals.
Above all, it is important to acknowledge that life is a journey full of plans, dreams, and aspirations. We carefully chart our course, outlining each step with precision, hoping to achieve the goals we’ve set for ourselves. But as much as we strive to control every aspect of our lives, there comes a point where we must acknowledge the limits of our human understanding. No matter how detailed our plans may be, life can take unexpected turns, and our best efforts may fall short.
In these moments of uncertainty, we are reminded of a profound truth: Jesus Christ is the Author and finisher of our lives. He knows the end from the beginning, and His plans for us are higher and greater than anything we could ever imagine.
Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This scripture invites us to place our faith and trust in Jesus, surrendering our plans to His perfect will. It is not an admission of defeat but an act of faith, knowing that He is in control and works all things together for our good.
So, while we continue to plan and prepare, let us also rest in the assurance that our ultimate success lies not in our own strength but in His grace and guidance. Trust Him, for He is faithful. His timing is perfect, and His purpose for your life will always prevail.
As we walk through life, let us anchor our hearts in the One who holds our future. Let us trust Jesus Christ, our Savior, the author and finisher of our faith. For in Him, we find peace, purpose, and the assurance that we are never walking this path alone.
As you develop your 2025 New Year’s goals, remember that all progress takes place outside the comfort zone. I hope that by the end of 2025, you will be able to look back, God willing, and appreciate the efforts and decisions you made during the year.
