Why I don’t believe in New Year’s Resolutions, and Neither Should You

Dear Young Professional,

In my opinion, New Year’s resolutions are fraught with disaster, Ok maybe that’s a bit dramatic. I guess a case could be made that with the collective energy of the universe creating momentum, New Year’s resolutions have a focus that should end in success.

I find the opposite is often true. How many times have we made the same promise to ourselves? Lose weight, go to the gym more and eat healthier, you get the point.

Now just because I am not a fan of New Year’s resolutions, don’t think that I don’t think these aspirations aren’t worthy of your time and attention. Aspirations and goals are extremely important and worthy when done right. Let me give you something to think about this New Year Season:

• If you feel compelled to set a New Year Resolution pick one, the most important to you, and make it achievable. If losing 30 pounds is your goal by summer, break it down into smaller goals (1.5 pounds a week) so you can be celebrating success frequently.

• If you have a great goal, act when the thought arises, don’t wait for New Years.

• Spread out your goals, tackling many items at the same time lose focus and often is overwhelming a sure recipe for failure.

• Only share goals with those who are supportive, don’t invite “Debbie Downer” to chime in with opinions.

• If you like the idea of an annual assessment of life, why not pick your birthday? Every birthday I make some quiet time to reflect on what I have accomplished from another year on this planet and what I want to accomplish in my next one.

If in this New Year you are hoping to “Get Noticed”, “Get Ahead” and “Get Unstuck”, my new book Aunt Kris Can You Help Me? will be available late January. Sign up here to be notified when it’s available for purchase.

As we ring in the New Year with friends and loved ones, may your celebrations be safe and joyful.

Fondly, Aunt Kris