The Secret to…
Making Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick
I got a late start to my 2024 planning but I’m finally on it. I just purchased my brand-new planner/calendar. There’s something so exciting about buying a new planner for a new year. All those blank pages with so much space and room for whatever we can imagine and the possibility of dreams coming true.
As we approach the new year, it’s tempting to jump on the bandwagon of setting resolutions. But before you do, pause and consider some sobering statistics: Only 9% of Americans who make resolutions actually complete them. Astonishingly, 23% give up within the first week, 43% by the end of January, and most don’t make it past three months.
It seems like good idea to start fresh and begin the year with traditional goal-setting and New Year’s resolutions but I believe this is fundamentally flawed. By focusing on specific outcomes and rigid benchmarks, we set ourselves up for failure and disappointment. True transformation lies not in chasing arbitrary goals but in redefining our approach to personal growth entirely.
The secret to making transformation stick is to understand your “why” or your purpose and for many people that is a missing key piece.
The Missing Piece: Purpose
Many people don’t understand their purpose — the underlying reason for their actions. Without this clarity, resolutions often lack the fuel or motivation to sustain them.
Why Purpose Matters in Every Aspect of Life
1. Purpose as Your Daily Engine
Imagine waking up each day, driven by a clear purpose. It’s an inner compass that guides every decision. Without it, life can feel aimless, affecting your mood and well-being. Purpose isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about feeling alive and driven.
2. Building Relationships Around Shared Purpose
Purpose acts as a magnet, drawing people together. It creates bonds stronger than casual connections. Without a shared purpose, deep connections can be elusive. Shared goals and passions are the bedrock of strong relationships.
3. Clear Decision-Making Guided by Purpose
In a world full of choices, a clear purpose acts as an anchor. It helps align your decisions with your core values, leading to authentic living and not being swayed by external factors.
4. Making Your Mark with Purpose
Ever wonder about your impact on the world? A defined purpose turns every action into a meaningful contribution. It’s about making a difference that resonates with your true self.
5. Embracing Your Unique Journey
Comparing your path with others is a common pitfall. Understanding your purpose shifts focus to personal growth and fulfillment, moving away from external validation.
6. Navigating Life with Less Stress Through Purpose
Life is full of uncertainties. A clear purpose provides direction, helping you handle challenges with composure and resilience. It’s about regaining control amidst chaos.
Embarking on a Journey of Purpose
Finding your purpose is more than an exercise; it’s a transformative journey towards a fulfilling and joyful life. As you step into the new year, I encourage you to invest in discovering what truly drives you. It’s a journey worth taking, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Let this be the year you not just set resolutions, but embark on a journey of discovery that changes your life profoundly.
Founder and CEO of STAR City Life Coaching, LLC. Mary is a writer, speaker, coach, and licensed trauma therapist with over 30 years of experience supporting women.
“I support women who are done with overthinking, overgiving, overworking, and overachieving at the expense of their health, relationships, and success.”
