Why do we make New Year’s resolutions?

Why do we make New Year’s resolutions?

Resolutions can come in many forms, but the reasons we make resolutions fall into two important buckets:

1. Promises or desires to change something we don’t like.

This could be a bad habit or an undesired trait or behavior.

2. Promises or desires to add something we like.

This could be a positive habit or a new routine or behavior.

The bottom line is the same—we want to improve —but the distinction between the two sets of motivations is crucial.

Are we running away from something, or are we running toward something?

These mindsets are totally different, and your approach will dictate the type of effort and priorities you need to put in place to achieve your goals.

Knowing what motivates us is crucial.

What are the benefits of making New Year’s resolutions?

Drawings by Melinda Walker – One Squiggly Line Visual Thinking