The Sustainable Shift

January 2025 | Issue 1

New Year, New Goals: Why Most Resolutions Fail and How to Succeed

The start of a new year is a time for fresh beginnings and ambitious resolutions. Yet, studies show that only about 25% of people stick to their resolutions beyond 30 days. Why? Because most resolutions are made without a plan for sustainable change. True progress requires a different approach — one rooted in gradual, intentional habits.

Why Resolutions Fail

One common reason resolutions fail is that people try to go from 0 to 100 overnight. Our brains are not wired to handle drastic changes all at once. By consistently working towards a goal, your brain creates new neural connections, making it easier to repeat the behaviors necessary to reach that goal. When we attempt to overhaul our lives in a single step, we become overwhelmed, lose motivation, and revert to old habits.

As Tony Robbins famously said, “Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change.” A strong desire to change is the foundation for success. Without it, the process feels like an uphill battle.

The Key to Lasting Change

Lasting progress comes from slowly integrating new habits, one at a time. Small, manageable steps ensure these habits stick. Start with a strong desire to change, then focus on breaking down your goals into digestible weekly targets.

For example, if your goal is to lose 20 pounds, break it down into losing 2 pounds per week. Losing 1 to 2 pounds per week is a healthy and reasonable weight-loss goal. Losing weight at a gradual pace is more likely to help you keep it off. Achieving this requires increasing physical activity, which can mean starting an exercise routine or simply adding more movement into your day, like taking extra steps or choosing active hobbies.

By focusing on weekly milestones, you can build momentum and celebrate small victories along the way. These wins keep motivation high and make the larger goal feel achievable.

The Role of a Coach in Your Success

Embarking on a journey of change can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. A coach can be your guide, helping you set realistic weekly goals, manage challenges, and stay accountable. A coach can see the barriers holding you back easier since they are looking in from a distance. Everyone faces barriers when working toward physical goals, but a coach provides the support and expertise to help you overcome them.

Having someone in your corner to celebrate your progress and offer encouragement can make all the difference. A coach doesn’t just teach you what to do; they help you believe you can do it.

Ready to Make This Year Different?

This year, ditch the all-or-nothing mindset and commit to sustainable change. With a strong desire, a step-by-step plan, and the support of a coach, you can achieve your goals and make progress that lasts well beyond January. Let’s make this the year you turn resolutions into results.