A New Year’s resolution is often framed as not doing something; quit this, stop that. But real, lasting change usually works better when we focus on positive actions we want to build, not behaviors we want to eliminate. Here are ten practical ways to make resolutions more effective and realistic.

1. Frame Your Resolution Positively

Avoid negative wording like “quit” or “stop.” Instead of saying, “I want to stop biting my nails,” say, “I want my nails to grow.” Track progress visually. Daily photos or notes can be surprisingly motivating.

2. Build Reflection Into Your Routine

Set aside time to reflect on your progress. Pair it with something you already do, like journaling during your morning coffee or reviewing your goals when you check your calendar.

3. Keep It Simple

Limit yourself to one or two resolutions. A long list is overwhelming. Even historically, resolutions were simple. Benjamin Franklin’s father once resolved to “begin the New Year’s square with every man,” meaning he settled his debts.

4. Choose Goals That Make You Feel Better

Don’t chase goals just because society says you should. If health is your aim, try reframing weight loss as “I want to eat more interesting, nourishing meals,” and then make that goal enjoyable.

5. Make Goals Specific and Measurable

“I want to help others” is vague. “I will volunteer at the food pantry once a month” is clear and trackable. Write it down and keep a simple log.

6. Remove Barriers Before They Trip You Up

Think ahead about obstacles. If remembering daily vitamins is hard, use a weekly pill organizer and check prescriptions when you refill it.

7. Think Short-Term and Realistic

Plan in monthly increments, not lifetimes. Rather than resolving to retire in five years, start with a monthly budget and track where your money actually goes.

8. Create a Small Incentive

Make your goal fun, or costly to ignore. Want less phone use at dinner? Put phones in a basket and owe a dollar to a family member if you take yours out.

9. Change Your Environment or Routine

If brushing your teeth too briefly is the problem, pair it with another task like wiping down the mirror. If punctuality is your goal, set reminders five minutes before meetings.

10. Adjust, Don’t Quit

Slip-ups happen. If they become frequent, revise the plan. Walking five days a week might be too much. Try three scheduled days instead and build from there.

Another Way to Start Fresh

Most people actually do better with resolutions than we think. A Marist poll found that 68% of adults who made a resolution kept it. And if resolutions still don’t appeal to you, try this: write down a few regrets from the past year, then throw that paper away. The ancient Romans’ symbol of the New Year, Janus, with one face looking back and one forward, would approve.

My Typical New Year’s Resolutions

Each year, my goals usually center around four themes:

• Weight loss and better health
• Spending more intentional time with family
• A deeper understanding of God and the Bible
• Improved income and financial stability

They’re not about perfection, just steady progress and reflection.

What About You?

What are your New Year’s resolutions this year?
Feel free to share them and, if you’d like, how you plan to make them achievable.