Have New Year's Resolutions Become Cliche?

Millions of people make New Year’s resolutions. Some make the same resolution year after year. It doesn’t take statistics to show we are not great at keeping them. Have New Year’s resolutions become cliche? Or are we making the wrong resolutions, or the right resolutions but for the wrong reasons?

Are New Year’s Resolutions Cliche?

Cliche refers to an expression that ‘has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful’. In 2021 Chris and Michelle created an “Anti-Resolutions List” that was both interesting and thoughtful. Kudos!

But admit it, . . . most New Year’s resolutions are ‘Same old, Same old,” neither interesting nor thoughtful.

“New Year” is a Reboot, a Restart, a Rebrand

Why else do we flip the calendar back to January 1 all over again! But the word “Resolution” raises my blood pressure. It stems from the word resolute, defined as “admirably purposeful, determined and unwavering.” Although it may be admirable, “unwavering” seems like a recipe for failure. Unfortunately, many New Year’s Resolutions are driven by someone else’s idea or societal pressure on what needs to change. That, too, is fatally flawed.

Successful Resolutions are Based Upon Your Values and Priorities

What are your passions? What matters most in your life?

Is it peace and calm? Build in quiet time.
Intimacy? Commit to connecting with your spouse every day — emotionally, physically, spiritually.
Do you value friendship? Listen more, talk less, compliment others.

Resolutions based on values and priorities don’t mean that you nix the diet, exercise and weight loss goal, but do it to feel good and to be healthy.

How about a S.M.A.R.T. Spin on New Year’s Resolutions?

Specific — Resolutions driven by values and priorities can still be specific. For example, I am going to ask Tom what he most needs from me each day. And I will be patient and vulnerable and will help him formulate a specific response. I have asked Tom to leave work at work.

Measurable — Mark your commitment to a date night with a selfie. Start a gratitude journal and don’t let the sun set without a daily entry — even if it is just one word. If your value is financial security, plan a budget for each month. You can’t get more specific than that!

Achievable — If going to the Gym is torture, walking with a friend or listening to a favorite podcast while working out can make it achievable. If your day is crazy busy, take the stairs or sprint across the parking lot and check exercise off your list for the day. Good is good enough!

Relevant — Setting a resolution based upon your values and priorities is key. Put some thought into it. Make a resolution together as a couple. There is nothing like having your soulmate to hold you accountable!

Time-Bound — Keep your timeline realistic. Break your resolution into mini-goals and celebrate the small wins. It is important to remember that success is persistence and not perfection!

Still on the Fence about New Year’s Resolutions?

You can ditch the Resolution, . . . but Don’t ditch the New Year’s Eve Kiss! Because as Harry so classically stated: “. . . it’s not because it’s New Year’s Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” (When Harry Met Sally)

Start it with a Kiss!