How to stick to your New Year resolution

The best resolutions are small, clear, and rooted in who you want to become.
How to stick to your New Year resolution

Every January, we promise ourselves a better year — wake up earlier, study harder, eat healthier, scroll less. But by February, many of those goals disappear. Why? Because most resolutions are based on pressure, not planning.

A successful resolution doesn’t need to be dramatic. It needs to be doable. Start with one clear behaviour. Instead of saying, “I’ll be more organised,” say, “I’ll write my next day’s to-do list every night at 9 PM.” Small actions lead to big changes — because they’re easy to repeat.

Start small
Tiny, specific habits are easier to repeat than vague goals.

Next, tie your resolution to your identity, not just outcomes. Don’t say, “I want to score better.” Say, “I want to become someone who studies with focus every day.” When your goal reflects the kind of person you want to be, you’re more likely to stay motivated.

Identity shift
Resolutions work better when tied to the kind of person you want to become.

Also, expect failure — and plan for it. Missing one day doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It just means you’re human. The real success is in restarting quickly.

Bounce back
Missing one day isn’t failure — quitting is. Restarting builds real strength.

And finally, track it visibly. Whether it’s a calendar, a journal, or a simple tick mark, seeing your progress builds momentum.

Track it
Visible progress motivates the brain and builds consistency.

A resolution isn’t a rule. It’s a reminder of what matters. Set it with care, return to it with kindness, and let it guide you — not pressure you.

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DHIE
www.deccanherald.com