what is your new year resolution in 2023 essay

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• Life Skills

What do you want to accomplish in 2023? This New Year's resolution guide can help

Connie Hanzhang Jin

Malaka Gharib

Becky Harlan

What do you want to accomplish this year? Scroll through Life Kit's expert guides for practical and inspiring ways to grow in 2023.

Ah, the new year. It's a time to sketch out your goals and think about the roadmap to get there.

Life Kit has curated a list of some of our best episodes to help set you up for success in 2023. They include practical guidance (like how to pick a birth control or ask for a raise ), forward-thinking advice (like how to save for retirement or freeze your eggs ) and tips on how to live more mindfully (like how to reduce food waste or set boundaries ).

It might feel hard to start a new habit, but as BJ Fogg, a behavior scientist at Stanford and author of Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything , told Life Kit in a 2020 interview , "it's easier to create habits and change than most people think, and it's faster than most people think. It can even be fun if you do it in the right way."

The key is to understand how behavior change happens. You've got to have the motivation, the ability to do the behavior and a prompt, says Fogg. "And the prompt is anything that reminds you to do this behavior now. And when those three things come together at the same moment, a behavior happens."

So go on, pick a resolution that's achievable — but also bold and aspirational. We've got 40+ ideas for you to choose from. Here's to a stronger, more confident you in 2023.

• How to change careers
• How to return to college
• How to find a mentor
• How to ask for a raise
• How to futureproof your body
• How to start an exercise habit
• How to get into strength training
• How to drink less alcohol
• How to pick a birth control
• How to create a better bedtime routine
• How to approach weight loss differently
• How to clear your clutter
• How to split household chores
• How to reduce food waste
• How to keep your house clean
• How to stay on top of 'life admin'
• How to train your dog

Mental health

• How to be less indecisive
• How to deal with uncertainty
• How to draw boundaries
• How to start therapy
• Find your purpose

Relationships

• How to navigate the coming out convo
• How to travel with friends
• How to make new friends
• How to show your friends you love them
• How to break up
• How to create a relationship contract
• How to be OK with being single
• How to fall in love
• How to learn your heritage language
• How to pack for a trip
• How to start a creative habit

Personal finance

• How to write a will
• How to plan a budget
• How to budget for a baby
• How to save for retirement
• How to decide if you want a baby
• How to freeze your eggs
• How to get your kid to listen better
• How to win back time as a working parent

Goal setting

• How to avoid cognitive bias
• How to examine your regrets
• How to stop procrastinating
• How to make a better to-do list

The episodes were created by Life Kit. Design, development and illustrations by Connie Hanzhang Jin. Production, editing and art direction by Malaka Gharib and Beck Harlan with additional support by Julia Carney. Special thanks to Life Kit supervising editor Meghan Keane, growth editor Arielle Retting, senior digital analyst Brittany Cheng and engagement editor Dylan Scott.

We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823 , or email us at [email protected] .

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , or sign up for our newsletter .

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Guest Essay

This Year, Make a Resolution About Something Bigger Than Yourself

By Roger Rosenblatt

The author, most recently, of “Cataract Blues: Running the Keyboard.”

New Year’s resolutions are penny-ante prayers. You are this way, but you hope to be that way. You used to want this, but now you want that.

The assumption behind resolutions is that something must be corrected and improved. One vows to be better than one was the year before.

Part of the nature of resolutions, particularly for those of us north of 60, has to do not only with the new year before us, but also with time already spent, or misspent.

We reflect on the years we’ve lived, on the past resolutions made and broken. Another New Year’s Eve come and gone. Every time the ball drops, the heart sinks. You are running out of time, and time is what we value most.

The historian-philosopher Lewis Mumford believed that the clock, not the steam engine, was the principal machine of the industrial age because time has a commanding relationship to the expenditure of human energy, and thus to any product itself. From the start, the essence of industry has been that things run on time. Time touches everything in life, even love. The fundamental things apply.

Thus there is always a melancholic desperation and urgency when we shout, “Happy New Year!” Will this new year, in fact, be any better than the last? We resolve that it will. We resolve to be fitter, healthier, cleverer, richer, more successful, more popular, more productive, better dressed, happier. And so restarts the whole vain, foolish, inevitably disappointing cycle.

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33 Realistic New Year’s Resolutions You Can Achieve Next Year

Discover meaningful New Year’s goals you can fulfill in 2023. We’ve collected the best New Year’s resolutions for 2023 in this article from Headway.

Introducing Headway’s New Year’s resolution list

The new year is approaching, and it’s time to think about your plans for the next 365 days. January is perfect for fresh starts, but understandably, some people dread this season. 

Previously, New Year’s resolutions have been about exercise, eating, money, or business. However, when you set your goals this year, we encourage you to think about good New Year’s resolutions for all areas of life. 

For 2023, our New Year’s resolution ideas are about sparking joy in work, love, life, and beyond. You may see some traditional ideas in there, but we think tinier resolutions this year are the way forward. Instead of setting unattainable goals, join us as we take small steps to a happier, more fulfilling life .

Check the following list of books to support your journey and help you stick to your 2023 New Year’s resolution list. 

Key points:

The beginning of a new year is a great time to think about what you want from life. Instead of overwhelming goals, we’re setting tinier resolutions this year for an effortless way to elevate your life.

Choose from 33 manageable and fun ways to call in 2023, from getting creative and planning your business idea to practicing mindfulness techniques for your mental well-being.

The Headway app makes reading and learning accessible on the go! Whether you want to read more in 2023 or would like to know about your new resolution, you can read or listen to bite-sized insights from your favorite books.

Make resolutions this year that are realistic and attainable. Then, schedule time in your calendar to learn and complete each activity.

33 New Year’s resolution ideas for 2023

Welcome to Headway’s 2023 New Year’s resolution list! Think of this as a pick-n-mix: choose a New Year’s resolution that suits you, leave the ones that don’t resonate, and start working towards a fresh year!

#1 Make time to read more

Whenever you think of improving your life, you typically think of learning and leisure. Well, reading falls under both of those! Thus, the first resolution on our list is to read more . Reading can boost creativity, expand your knowledge, and provide new perspectives.  It can be challenging to find time to read, amongst other responsibilities. This is why here at Headway, we want to support you on this journey. With the Headway app , you can read or listen to the main ideas outlined in any book in just 15 minutes. You can also take advantage of fun challenges and streaks that will help you stick to your resolution for longer than a few weeks. And the best part is that you can choose from thousands of must-read books on our app. Start your year on the right track with Headway!

a person reading a book and holding a cup of coffee.

#2 Implement more stress-relieving activities 

Stress can have all sorts of impacts on our physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Let’s face it: life isn’t supposed to be all about stress. So, why not make it a priority to ease those unwanted feelings in 2023? If you’re looking to read more about how stress impacts humans and what to do about it, check out How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie.

#3 Find a balance between work and play

Working towards your career is fun and exciting, but be mindful of how much energy you give it. Try finding a balance between work and play this coming year, as it might be exactly what you’re looking for.

#4 Cook a new meal each week

We all want to eat nutritiously, so take a more straightforward approach by learning new recipes. Challenge yourself to make a new meal every week or month. If you’re unsure what foods to incorporate into your lifestyle, read or listen to insights from James Collins’ The Energy Plan , a book about eating to boost energy and performance.

#5 Learn a new skill

Learning is fun (and you can’t convince us otherwise). Make 2023 the year you take up that new hobby you’ve been thinking about. Maybe you’ve loved the idea of rollerblading, learning how to play an instrument, or getting crafty. 

#6 Make time for friends

Between families, a job, and managing your home; it’s common for friends to be the last on your to-do list. However, maintaining friendships isn’t as difficult as we may believe. Try booking small activities or phone calls to catch up with friends in a way that is doable for you both. 

#7 Invest in yourself

Have you got an idea that is burning to come out? Have you been neglecting your own needs to please those around you? Whether learning to love yourself or finally starting that passion project, make your new resolution to invest in yourself. Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo is a great book to explore for breaking down these big goals into manageable steps.

#8 Give one compliment a day

A simple and kind gesture can go far in life. If you’re looking for tinier resolutions this year, aim to give one compliment daily. 

#9 Find new ways to support climate change 

It’s not too late to make eco-friendly changes in your life. Task yourself with finding new ways to support the planet, such as using less single-use plastic or buying fewer clothes.

a family of four gathered in the kitchen, laughing as they unpack their groceries.

#10 Practise gratitude 

Consider making a gratitude jar for a New Year’s resolution. Every time you think of something you’re grateful for, write it down and put it in the jar. Soon enough, you’ll have a whole pot of gratitude for days you’re feeling down.

#11 Practice good financial habits

Have you let your finances go these last few months? Let’s get back on track by buying intentionally, saving more, and using money wisely. Listen to key insights from Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche on the Headway app for simple steps to stress-free finances.

#12 Be mindful of how you use social media

Put your hand up if you got stuck in a TikTok scroll this week. Sounds relatable! Social media can be so much fun, but it also has downsides. Use the start of 2023 to set boundaries with your social media accounts and take more time offline. 

#13 Work on making your living space more welcoming

Your home is the place you should feel warm, safe, and comforted. If yours lacks that magical feeling, check out Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life, to discover how feng shui can change the feel of your home .  

#14 Work on your listening skills 

While communication is a fundamental life skill, many forget this includes listening. Work on your listening skills to deepen your connections for your New Year’s resolution. You’re Not Listening by Kate Murphy is a good place to start understanding the importance of listening.

#15 Give more hugs

Nothing beats a warm hug from a loved one. In fact, it’s well-known that physical touch benefits our well-being, making it even more important to hug your loved ones the next time you see them. 

#16 Consider therapy

Going to therapy has become much less of a taboo subject. Many people appreciate it as a tool to learn how to care for one’s mental health and prevent a downward spiral.

#17 Do something you loved as a child

Sometimes in adulthood, we lose touch with our playful side. 2023 may be the year you reconnect with your inner child and spend more time doing the things you love.

#18 Give to charity 

Giving to others is an excellent way to spread kindness and one of the best New Year’s resolutions. Consider giving away clothes you no longer need or donating what you can to a local charity. 

#19 Upcycle your clothing 

Not only can it be a fun activity with friends, but using your old clothes is a great way to reduce waste. You can listen to bite-sized learnings from The Conscious Closet by Elizabeth L. Cline on the Headway app to learn more about clothing and the planet.

#20 Go somewhere without your phone

Challenge yourself to be more present by going somewhere without your phone. Perhaps it’s to your local town or a whole weekend away. Catherine Price’s How to Break Up with Your Phone is an excellent read on this subject.

A person enjoying the outdoors as they walk through a forest.

#21 Practise kindness towards yourself and others

It’s free to be kind to others, and that includes yourself too. Kindness is crucial to building good connections and boosting your self-esteem.

#22 Try going vegan or vegetarian 

Cutting back on meat and dairy products is good for the planet and our bodies. Join the numerous people doing Veganuary, following a vegan lifestyle for January. It can be a great way to discover new recipes too!

#23 Cut back on alcohol in January 

Like Veganuary, many people partake in ‘dry Jan,’ a month without alcohol. Looking for a challenge to kick off the new year? This is the one for you.

#24 Start working on your business idea 

This may not resonate with everyone, but if you’ve been sitting on an idea for a while, it’s time to back yourself! If you’re unsure how your business idea will work, take notes from Will It Fly? By Pat Flynn.

#25 Make 2023 the year of discipline

If you’ve got some time off this new year, use this to organize things you’ve been putting off. It is a great way to start the year off fresh.

#26 It’s time to prioritize self-care 

Self-care has been a significant theme in 2022 resolution lists, and 2023 is no different. We’re encouraging you to prioritize self-care to prevent burnout and make resolutions this year that support your health. 

#27 Confidence looks great on you, so why not wear it more?

Has 2022 been hard on you? Make this year the best yet by investing in yourself and building your confidence . 

#28 Solo travel 

Solo traveling can be an exciting way to explore new places and meet new people. If you’re up for the challenge, start your year by planning your first trip!

#29 Try your hand at investing

If you’re looking for better ways to spend your money, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John Bogle is a fantastic way to understand the investing world and make your money go further.

#30 Make a fun 2023 playlist 

If you’re stuck for New Year’s resolution ideas, this one is for music lovers. Make a playlist for 2023 and set a positive tone for the year ahead.

A father and his two daughters dancing to music in a living room.

#31 Slow down your meal times

Make every moment count, including meal times. Practice mindful eating for a more enjoyable dining experience. This practice helps you savor the eating experience by tuning into the colors, smells, tastes, and textures. Although it isn’t strictly a guide to mindful eating techniques, Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink, Ph.D., considers taking intentional action around when, why, how, and what you eat.

#32 Watch a new documentary 

Learning is our bread and butter, so we love the idea of this new resolution. There are so many documentaries to choose from, so you’ll quickly find something that interests you!

#33 Stick to your resolutions

Ok, so it’s not an actual resolution, but doing your best to stick to your New Year’s goals might transform your life. If you struggle to pick up new habits or learn, check out the core learnings from Make It Stick on the Headway app. 

How to stick to your New Year’s resolutions?

Coming up with New Year’s resolutions can be motivating and a great way to kick off 2023. Understandably though, many people need help to sustain the momentum of new habits as the months progress. With some support and guidance, you can maintain these hobbies, habits, and lifestyle changes. These are our top tips to make resolutions this year and stick to them:

Make it specific: Many New Year’s resolutions fall through because they are vague. Whether you want to eat better or read more, set a measurable goal of cooking one vegetarian meal a week or listening to key points on the Headway app for 10 minutes daily.

Schedule time to learn about your new resolutions this year: Read about them, watch tutorials, and plan how to start. Many find it helpful to have a clear picture of what they want to achieve.

Be realistic : You’re not going to do every one of our New Year’s resolution examples. Instead, pick five that resonate with you and be realistic with your time. Which goals are most important to you? Which one are you more likely to be motivated to achieve even after a few months?

Keep at it: Building new habits comes down to commitment and consistency. Making your goal a regular occurrence will make it easier to stick to. For example, if you want to increase the number of books you’re reading, try waking up 15 minutes earlier to read or listen to some insights on the Headway app. 

Final thoughts

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be complicated. Choosing tinier resolutions this year might make your New Year’s goals more achievable. 

If you want to learn more about your chosen resolution (or simply to read more), you can listen and learn on the go with Headway . Sessions as little as 15 minutes can teach you the core insights of a book and get you started on your aspiration. We hope our New Year’s resolution list has inspired you to prioritize bite-sized goals that spark joy in your life as you enter the new year!

What are the top 5 New Year’s resolutions?

Although many are opting for tinier resolutions this year, the most popular New Year’s goals include exercising, losing weight, changing their eating habits, practicing better financial habits, and working towards a career. 

How many New Year’s resolutions can you have?

You can have as many New Year’s resolutions as you wish. However, if you want to follow through with them, it’s best to pick a couple of realistic aspirations. 

What are good New Year’s resolutions?

The best New Year’s resolutions are the ones that suit your unique needs. For example, if you work a lot, you may enjoy using the Headway app to read more and practice self-care. Alternatively, you can enjoy establishing your business idea.

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The new year means new beginnings — and new resolutions. Whether your students hope to become stronger readers or aim to be more compassionate toward one another, the new year is the perfect time to help them reflect upon what they need to do to achieve their goals.

These 31 new year writing prompts will inspire your students to reflect on the past year, set realistic goals and resolutions, and look ahead to a bright future to make 2024 even more successful!

1. What are your resolutions for this new year?

2. Why is it important to make new year’s resolutions?

3. What was the best thing that happened to you this past year?

4. What are you most looking forward to this new year?

5. This year will be a year of…

6. In what ways were your kind to your friends, family, and teachers this past year?

7. What can you do this new year to be a good friend?

8. What can you do this new year to show gratitude for your friends, family, and teachers?

9. This new year, I’m grateful for…

10. This new year, I can’t wait to…

11. What new adventures would you like to go on this year?

12. Can you describe your most memorable new year?

13. Why is the new year important to you?

14. Have you made a new year’s resolution before? What was it?

15. Does your family have any new year’s traditions? What are they?

16.  What can you do to make this new year even more special than last?

17.  Before this year ends, I will…

18.  The best book I read last year was ________ because…

19.  The book I’m most looking forward to reading this year is ________ because…

20.  This new year, I can’t wait to learn about…

21.  This new year, I hope I’m able to…

22.  What will you need to do to achieve your goals and keep your resolutions in the new year?

23.  What can we do as a class this new year to be more kind to one another?

24.  How can your classmates and teachers help you achieve your goals and resolutions?

25.  How can you help your classmates and teachers achieve their goals and resolutions?

26.  In what ways can you practice empathy this year?

27.  Describe a time when you helped a classmate or teacher. How did you feel afterward?

28. What was the most fun part of the year in class for you?

29. What are you most excited to do in class next year?

30. What can you do next year to be helpful at home and at school?

31. What was the most interesting thing you’ve learned this year?

Combining daily writing exercises with extended class or small-group discussion will help your students set realistic, yet meaningful, goals to make the new year even more successful than the last. By encouraging your students to really reflect on the new year and what it means to make and keep resolutions, they’ll be prepared to overcome any challenge they may encounter along the way — and help their friends and classmates do the same!

Shop workbooks that encourage writing skills below. You can find all books and activities — including writing workbooks and other writing resources — at  The Teacher Store .

Want more great content? Click  here  to subscribe to our Teacher Newsletter and get teaching ideas delivered right to your inbox. 

200 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Career, Work, and Personal Growth

A New Year’s Resolution is a Filipino tradition. Or at least, that’s how Filipino students deemed it. Every January of each year, on the first day of class, students from elementary, high school, and college declare their New Year’s resolutions.

When I was in high school, I wrote my New Year’s Resolution essays (as it was often required) during Christmas breaks. It is still cool to write resolutions these days for fun.

I do Impact Goals, Quarterly Goals, and Monthly Projects, which are better than most New Year’s Resolutions. I will share these with you later if you are interested. An excellent support to your New Year’s resolutions is  3 Words . Find out how to do it.

I am publishing this three days before the New Year. So you will have plenty of time to write your New Year’s Resolution or do the alternatives.

New Year’s Resolution Ideas

Typically, people get a pen and a piece of paper to write one, two, three, or even ten New Year’s resolutions. They write down whatever comes to mind.

A few get post-it notes and Sharpie pens. They write on each note one resolution. They may come up with dozens. Then, they pick the top ten they want to do next year.

I separate my New Year’s resolutions for family and work.

I use a mind map when I make resolutions. It is creative. I write the year, then encircle it. I think of three words. For work, my three words for 2023 are transformation, experience, and dollars. Then, I will generate more ideas from each word.

Another exercise that I do, which I can do any month of the year, is Stop, Continue, and Start.

Most people consider the brainstorming session as the only step to writing a resolution. This is why most of the resolutions don’t have staying power. Later, I will show you ways to make your resolutions compelling.

If you are looking for New Year’s Resolution ideas, these will help you. Open each accordion pane to find resolutions that may inspire you

More than half of those who do New Year’s Resolution pay attention to physical well-being. Probably, because our physical health is most obvious among the many things that need change.

You will find below more than 50 ideas to consider for your resolutions.

Physical Health

• Lose weight.
• Increase 10 pounds.
• Exercise daily.
• Build muscles.
• Go to the gym each week.
• Get 20 drops of Cell Mineral Drop each day.
• Do brisk walking each morning.
• Eat nutritious food.
• Less sugar, no coffee, more tea.
• Eat fruits and vegetables.
• Start a vegan diet.
• Cook my own meals.
• Eat on time.
• Eat fresh foods, less fast foods.
• Plant fruits and vegetables.
• Eat when I am hungry.
• Drink milk each day.
• Drink 8 glasses of water.
• Take care of teeth.
• Stop smoking. It is now or never.
• Cut back on alcohol.
• Sleep eight hours a day.
• Sleep before 10 in the evening.
• Do power naps.
• Wake up before 5 in the morning.
• Sit less, move more.
• Do jumping jacks each morning.
• Cut grass every day.
• Wash the dishes at once.
• Do bungee jumping.
• Learn scuba diving.
• Ride a bike to work.
• Go mountain hiking each month.
• Train for a marathon.
• Join a bike club.
• Take dancing lessons.
• Join a Zumba class.
• Study martial arts.
• Swim for 30 minutes each week.
• Do ten push-ups after I wake up.
• Limit screen time. Stop Facebook and do less Netflix.
• Travel more often.
• Walk when the destination is less than 1 kilometer.
• Take monthly vacations.
• Do a three-month vacation.
• Start a no-phone zone and time.

Financial Wellness

Financial well-being is an ever-green aspiration. Though people are not comfortable sharing their money resolutions, it is one that they think about most of the time.

Here are some examples to help you brainstorm your money resolutions for the next year.

• Reduce expenses.
• Save more money.
• Pay all my debts.
• Create a new stream of income .
• Start a personal budget.
• Pay my credit card on time.
• Stop using my credit card.
• Not open any more credit cards.
• Find a financial advisor.
• Get an insurance plan.
• Join a paluwagan.
• Invest in the stock market.
• Take financial literacy course.
• Start a side hustle.
• Start a new business.
• Do online courses and webinars.
• Invest in Modified Pag-ibig II (MP2) Savings.
• Market other people’s products.
• Earn 10 million.
• Cook meals and eat less in restaurants to save money.

Intellectual Wellness

Intellectual growth is something worth considering in crafting New Year’s Resolutions. It does not matter how old you are; we continue learning for life.

I read three to ten books each month. Frankly, I don’t need to remember everything I read. But when I need to write something or answer questions, I find them useful. Answers magically appear.

The last book I read is Building the Second Brain by Tiago Forte. It helps me organize the information I need. When I need to develop modules on leadership training, I can easily access ideas, tools, and insights that are already mine.

May the following inspire you to grow intellectually.

• Learn how to learn.
• Learn how to make quality decisions.
• Learn how to think creatively.
• Do action research.
• Read personal development books.
• Apply lateral thinking in problem-solving.
• Listen to podcasts instead of watching TV.
• Study mind mapping.
• Use gamestorming in solving problems.
• Learn five new words each day.
• Practice time management skills.
• Learn from mistakes.
• Read leadership books.
• Watch documentaries.
• Learn a new language.
• Master some coding skills.
• Study innovation tools.
• Study strategic planning.
• Brainstorm new products each day.
• Use Design Thinking tools.
• Learn how to tell stories.
• Keep a discovery journal.
• Master memory techniques.
• Practice sketchnoting.
• Read history books.
• Study science books.
• Do DIY projects.

Spiritual Wellness

Filipinos are spiritual, if not very religious, people. We want to stay centered and grounded. But there are times we find ourselves losing control. And we look back and find ourselves away from what we used to do every Sunday.

Consider your spiritual well-being too.

May the following resolutions inspire you to examine your spiritual growth.

• Pray every morning.
• Go to church on Sundays.
• Meditate in the evening.
• Attend a religion class.
• Start a gratitude journal.
• Join a prayer group.
• Do evangelistic work.
• Use a spiritual journal.
• Read the Bible daily.
• Attend a spiritual retreat.
• Do a weekly “Commune with God”.
• Do gardening.
• Practice mindfulness.
• Pay forward.
• Spend time in nature.
• Practice Tai Chi.
• Travel as much as possible.
• Find the positive in things.

Career Development

Consider career development in your New Year’s resolutions. Think of ways to find the best vehicle that will help you climb the ladder of success. 

Depending on where you are today, you may use some of these ideas to advance your career.

• Build a personal brand.
• Enroll in a career development course.
• Read about career leap.
• Shift career.
• Start a business.
• Write a book.
• Start a podcast.
• Publish a vlog.
• Do a radio program.
• Get certified.
• Do keynote speaking.
• Join professional associations.
• Start a professional association.
• Enroll in post-graduate courses.
• Learn marketing.
• Enroll in a public speaking course.
• Enroll in an image-building course.
• Get a driver’s license.
• Do volunteer work.
• Learn a new skill.
• Learn social dancing.
• Do more networking.
• Join a Rotary club.
• Join a Toastmasters club .
• Join a theater group.
• Interview VIPs.
• Hold an event for my industry.

There are many things that we can do about work. People who are more intentional about how to improve work are more likely to succeed. A New Year’s Resolution is like a seed that will grow if you will tend to it. 

Here are examples of New Year’s Resolution ideas that may inspire you to work better in 2023.

• Develop my leadership skills.
• Improve my ability to delegate.
• Study how to manage people.
• Enroll for an MBA Degree.
• Develop communication skills.
• Benchmark with other leaders.
• Improve creative thinking skills.
• Improve decision-making skills.
• Stop procrastinating.
• Find ways to improve the work process.
• Build business acumen.
• Build positive relationships.
• Work to get a promotion.
• Work on a “Future Resume”.
• Don’t sweat the small stuff.
• Improve work-life balance.
• Build my personal brand.
• Give credit where credit is due.
• Expand my network.
• Use a second brain to store my knowledge.
• Quit complaining.
• Stay out of office politics.
• Work on my professional development plan.
• Set personal goals.
• Embark on personal ventures.
• Work on time management.
• Become a public speaker.
• Write a book about my profession.
• Start a podcast to serve my industry.
• Improve business writing skills.
• Improve presentation skills.
• Create new products for clients.
• Improve services for clients.
• Be more understanding.

What is a New Year’s Resolution?

A New Year’s Resolution is a declaration of what a person intends or resolves to do at the beginning of the year. Typically, people decide to stop doing undesirable traits or behaviors, continue doing good practices, and start working on personal goals or improving behaviors.

When you ask Filipinos, more than half will say they have New Year’s Resolution. About 1/3 say that they have written resolutions. You will find 100 examples of New Year’s Resolutions below.

Nearly half of those who don’t make New Year’s Resolution say it does not work.

Importance of New Year’s Resolution

Most people think that they need to do more these past years. The Covid-19 pandemic, for two years, made us anxious about the future. I remember that the New Year of 2021 was the first time most people stayed home. In January 2022, we recorded the highest number of Covid-19 infections.

But 2023 promises a better year. And once again, people talk about New Year’s Resolutions. And that’s good news.

There are mixed opinions as to the importance of resolutions. And I understand why.

Some people failed to continue what they started. Or they missed many opportunities of doing what they believed they should have done many New Year’s resolutions ago.

In 1996, Carlo declared that he would enroll again to finish his Master of Arts in Teaching. It was always a part of his New Year’s Resolutions. This year, he decided that pursuing it was of no use. The 30 units he earned will no longer be credited. He procrastinated. And procrastination sealed his fate, he believed.

A friend made a New Year’s Resolution to start jogging five years ago. So on January 4 last year, she started jogging around our neighborhood. She continued doing it for 15 more days. Then, she decided to pause for a week because of an important assignment. The one week became months. Yesterday, she said that she’d start again.

Thirty years ago, I “resolved” to write a book. I began with full enthusiasm, then eventually stopped. In Filipino, we call this habit Ningas Kugon. However, a friend commissioned me two years ago to write a book. I wrote that book in 16 days. I am confident I can write at least one book in 2023.

All New Year’s resolutions are aspirations for personal growth and development. And though you don’t have to wait for January 1 to start thinking about choosing the right things to do, a New Year’s resolution, as a tradition, reminds us about second chances, and the simple act of declaring our intentions helps us think deeply about the future.

Panata sa Bagong Taon

For Filipinos, a new year is a promise of a new life. It is more than just a day after December 31.

It is a fresh start.

In Filipino, New Year’s Resolution means panata sa bagong taon. It is not just an aspiration or a wish. It is a vow.

It is a fresh start. Whatever happened last year and the years before that have no hold on our future. We can choose to live the life we want.

Most New Year’s Resolutions aren’t fulfilled because of misunderstandings. But we will start behaving differently when we fully embrace that a new year is a fresh start and a resolution is a vow.

Why Some New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work

I have already given you three reasons why New Resolutions don’t work. And I have also given you an idea of why it works. So allow me to expound and expand.

Procrastination

The lack of willpower makes us delay. Procrastination is a silent killer. It murders our dreams without our notice.

People think that there is always tomorrow. We only have today; tomorrow is not promised to anyone.

If something is significant, it must be done today.

A resolution is a vow; it is not just a wish. A wish is something that may happen someday. A vow is your business today.

Ningas Kugon

Have you noticed that lifetime gym memberships are sold for a 50 percent discount during December and January? That’s because many people overestimate themselves.

A lifetime gym membership often gets used in three months.

If you are in Quezon Memorial Circle in the early mornings, you will see thousands of joggers. Some of them start at 5 am. But, during the first six weeks of the year, you’ll notice that the numbers are five times more than usual.

Ningas kugon is a lot better than procrastination. Starting something is already tricky. But success is measured by how we finished, not by how we started our games.

Ningas Kugon is often the result of a lack of commitment, discipline, and momentum.

Lack of Commitment

A committed person dedicates his time to a cause that truly matters to him. Those who cannot commit fail again and again.

A committed person displays patience, persistence, and perseverance. You can only be that person when you believe you can make things happen. Without that belief, there is no urgency. Without that belief, you will allow your fear to delay or stop you as soon as you face your first challenge.

Consider that a resolution is a vow to your future self.

Lack of Discipline

I see that even the most motivated people need to honor their resolutions. They can start, but they need to learn how to finish.

They work on many things but only sometimes on the most important thing.

A person with discipline does what they value most every day. They don’t allow their circumstances to dictate their actions.

New Year’s resolutions are good for us. They are part of the solution. Unfortunately, they don’t work when people don’t have the discipline to execute them.

Lack of Momentum

People need more momentum to finish what they start. There needs to be more than just doing the first step to walking a thousand miles. You need to follow the first with another step, and you need to keep moving until you reach a thousand miles.

Followthrough makes a breakthrough.

To create momentum, you need focus, consistency, and action.

By telling you why resolutions often do not work, can you tell how to make them work?

People often write these New Year’s Resolution ideas. As I have mentioned, I used different methods to come up with my list, and brainstorming is just the first stage. If you will only copy any of these resolutions, it is more likely that you’ll do a ningas kugon.

Resolutions that get done are clear and compelling.

I will show you different ways to write clear and compelling New Year’s Resolutions.

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My 3 Words for 2023

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These are the frequently asked questions that seldom get answers. If you want to get a better appreciation of these answers, you can read the whole article (if you have not yet done that).

Becoming a good person, working harder, and being more health conscious are Filipinos’ top 3 New Year’s resolutions. Becoming a good person is the most common topic in students’ New Year’s Resolution Essays. Working harder is our solution to having a good life. And being more health conscious may mean eating fruits and vegetables, losing weight, or gaining weight.

New Year’s Resolutions fail because of procrastination, ningas kugon, lack of clarity, lack of commitment, lack of discipline, and lack of momentum. Unfortunately, these are the same reasons my many goals fail too. Declaring what you resolve to stop, start, and continue doing is not enough; you need to follow through. A resolution, by definition, is a vow to do what you want to do no matter what.

The Tagalog for New Year’s Resolution is Panata sa Bagong Taon. A panata is a vow. For Filipinos, a new year celebration represents a fresh start. We vow to work harder to enjoy abundant lives.

Many people have changed their lives because they stick to their New Year’s resolutions. They kept their eyes on their aspirations and stuck to them. Though most who made New Year’s Resolutions stop working on them after six weeks, the problem is not in the resolutions but in the resolution of the person to make them happen. The intention to make change happen is the first step, which is a significant step to making change happen.

New Year’s Resolution Essay (Example)

As I have said, when I was in school, we were required to write our New Year’s Resolution essays in 200 words. I typically write more than that.

One way to write an essay is by using CONTINUE, STOP, and START. It is a very simple format that you anyone can follow.

The Year 2023 is a promise of a fresh start and bouncing forward. The last two years have been difficult because I could not go out. I was afraid, physically and psychologically.

The pandemic scare is not yet over. New variants of the virus appear. But for most of us vaccinated, there is confidence that we can finally fight the unknown.

There are things I know that I can change. And there are things that I must continue doing. My New Year’s Resolution is a manifesto, a declaration of what I want to continue, stop, and start doing in 2023.

CONTINUE I will continue to improve my skills in public speaking. Though I have been speaking for many years and earning money from it, there are many things that I need to learn. Public speaking turned my life around. And though there are many other opportunities to grow my business, I will continue speaking to inspire people and grow my business.

STOP I will stop spending time on Facebook, debating political issues with strangers, diehard supporters, and trolls. As much as I wanted to educate people and share with them what I know as a student of politics, I was doing it wrong.

Debating with strangers will not help. Adding my voice to a thousand who do not want to listen to each other won’t add value. I am not a follower. I am not a watcher.

I am a leader. And my platform is on the stage. I speak to lead, not just to add my voice.

I will expand my network to bring my message to many people. I will speak in schools to share my message with students and educators. I will talk at associations, conferences, and in company assemblies.

I will share a message of hope in my team-building programs, leadership training, and public seminars.

I will start speaking to change the world.

Mission Possible 2023

Your mission is to write your own New Year’s Resolution. Keep in mind that it is not just a wish. It is a panata , a vow that you have to your future self.

I recommend that you make your resolution visual. Take it seriously. Convert it into a personal development plan. Execute it. Then, teach others how to do it well.

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Struggling to keep New Year's resolutions? Here's how to actually set doable ones for 2023.

When choosing something to promise, we tend to forget the resolution must be accompanied by a plan to do or not do something. it’s that simple..

Where did the tradition of making a New Year’s resolution come from?

It’s an ancient practice. And the celebrations that once went along with turning the old year into the new are not only ancient but often dangerous.

For instance, the Danes jumped off chairs to "leap" into the new year. In Spain, the frivolity involved eating 12 grapes at or before bedtime.

In contemporary times, some celebrate the new year by eating black-eyed peas, if you can stand them. We also drink bubbly and find someone to kiss as the clock strikes midnight.

Pace yourself. We have time. 

Our holiday observances often include partying into the wee hours, a practice some law enforcement folks call amateur night on the roads.

This is because many people don’t know how to pace themselves. Sadly, we’ve all been there.

It’s not likely many celebrants will change their habits and play it safe with doable resolutions this New Year’s Eve.

Yet, we can try to get real in one aspect. It’s time for each of us to think long and hard when we set a New Year’s resolution.

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Year after year, many of us make a promise we can’t keep, even if we are clear-headed at decision time.

Realistically, how many of us can shed hundreds of pounds in a year? Is it likely we will successfully reinvent ourselves to become nicer or more gracious? Is it possible to turn over a new leaf and make measurable improvements in 365 days? Can anyone pay off all their credit cards and become free of debt in the new year?

Can you remember your 2022 resolutions? 

We know this because it’s certain very few of us remember what we promised for 2022. I know I can’t recall any resolution I’ve made over the years.

How about if we each resolve to set doable resolutions for 2023, ones that can improve our lives and the lives of others? We might have a shot at success if we put more thought into creating the resolution.

What in the world will 2023 bring?: Our USA TODAY Opinion team has wishes – and fears.

Let’s start with some simple commitments. We can promise to clean out the garage regularly, learn a foreign language, delete hundreds of ridiculous cellphone photos, go out weekly with friends, plant a garden, rescue a shelter pet, wash Mom’s car once a month or clean out the refrigerator.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store .

These resolutions might not sound all that impressive. But if we get real with our commitments, we will have something to celebrate.

When choosing something to promise, we tend to forget the resolution must be accompanied by a plan to do or not do something. It’s that simple.

Let's start small 

After all these years of meaningless resolutions, I’m starting with the basics for 2023. I hereby commit to getting somewhat familiar with my own kitchen so I can try cooking, drink more water every day and consume less sugar and carbs.

Or these might be acceptable solid resolutions for me. Watch fewer YouTube videos; turn off the cellphone at funerals; keep researching my ancestry; make thrift shop purchases and stop buying new and shiny; quit moaning over the loss of the local Dillard’s store; purchase and read every book written by a friend or relative and be grateful for what I have. I basically must often stop to smell the roses.

At the end of next year, the success rate in making changes by setting believable resolutions can be impressive.

Ditch the pressure: Rethink your resolutions for the new year by making intentions instead

Oh, wait. It will be hard for me to smell the roses anytime soon since I killed two backyard rose bushes this past spring.

Guess I need to promise to move plant a garden higher up on the resolution list.

Happy new year!

Andrea Chancellor has more than 20 years' of experience in newspaper and magazine journalism, and 20 years in corporate public relations.

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page , on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter . To respond to a column, submit a comment to [email protected].

More From Forbes

Resolutions that resonate: here is how to make them.

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Writing purposeful resolutions

As we welcome a new year, many of us will set resolutions, hoping to better ourselves and the world around us. But how often do these resolutions stick? Very few times!

Research following up on New Year's pledges indicates that only 9- 16% will keep them.

As a psychologist specializing in leadership and sustainability, I've observed a fascinating trend: Purposeful resolutions, deeply rooted in personal values and a sense of broader impact, are significantly more likely to be maintained.

What explains this phenomenon, and how can we harness the power of purpose to ensure our resolutions lead to real change?

How to Make and Keep Purposeful Resolutions

If you, like so many others, take the time to make New Year’s resolutions, adopt a strategy that will carry you through next year.

Purpose acts as an anchor in the business world, giving a company direction and meaning to goals, according to Gary Burnison, CEO of Korn Ferry.

Likewise, purpose can serve as your personal anchor. When resolutions align with your deeper values and beliefs, they become more than just goals; they transform into extensions of who you are and what you stand for.

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‘the boys’ dethroned in amazon prime video’s top 10 list by a new show, will there be a ‘house of the dragon’ season 3 here’s what to know about the next chapter, driving persistence through purpose.

The Society for Human Resource Management ( SHRM) claims that "leaders with persistence lead best."

Resolutions grounded in purpose are inherently motivating. These profound commitments and values transcend surface-level desires. The intrinsic motivation that attaches to purposeful resolutions is critical to overcoming obstacles and persevering even when challenges arise.

Creating Authentic Goals

Purposeful resolutions are authentic. They reflect our aspirations and enable us to resist external pressures or fleeting trends. This authenticity makes them more resonant and stickier, especially for leaders who often navigate complex and evolving landscapes.

Developing a Clear Vision for the Future

Having a clear vision linked to our resolutions helps maintain focus. A clear purpose can lead to a well-defined understanding of how our goals contribute to more significant environmental and social objectives.

Enhancing Emotional Connection

Emotionally resonant goals are more compelling. When we care deeply about the outcomes of our resolutions, we invest in seeing them through. Our ongoing commitment is especially likely when the stakes are high.

Issues like environmental integrity, social justice, and community well-being – are inherently emotional. Therefore, when we resolve to take action on these issues, we are more likely to do so than when our resolutions are empty pledges we make every year, like losing weight or exercising more often.

Building Resilience Through Purpose

Purpose helps build resilience. When faced with setbacks, knowing that our resolutions are personally significant gives us the strength to regroup and push forward. Overcoming barriers takes energy. And we want to know the results will be worth the effort.

Inspiring and Engaging Others

Purposeful goals have the power to inspire and engage not only the individual but also those around them.

As a leader, setting resolutions that resonate with your team's and organization's values can create a shared sense of mission and foster more significant commitment and cohesion.

Taking a Long-Term Perspective

Purposeful resolutions encourage a long-term perspective. They are not quick fixes but part of an ongoing journey toward meaningful change. This perspective is crucial in many societal challenges, such as sustainability, where changes often require continuous effort over the long haul.

Aligning with Personal and Professional Growth

When resolutions align with personal and professional growth, they become more viable. Find a way to integrate your resolutions with your career development to ensure your goals support your professional trajectory.

Reflecting and Adjusting Goals

Purposeful resolutions are dynamic. They require room for reflection and adjustment, ensuring they remain relevant and impactful as circumstances change.

Build a plan for revisiting the resolutions, charting progress, and revising when circumstances change.

The Ripple Effect of Purposeful Leadership

Leaders who set purposeful resolutions model behaviors that ripple through their organizations and communities. Demonstrating a commitment to deliver on your resolutions can lead to a culture that prioritizes long-term well-being over short-term gains.

As we venture into this new year, let's embrace purposeful resolutions. In doing so, we increase our chances of sticking to these goals and contributing to a larger narrative of positive change in the world where the impact of our actions extends far beyond ourselves. Purposeful resolutions are more than just commitments; they reflect our deepest values and aspirations, driving us toward a future we are passionate about creating.

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Embracing Change: My New Year Resolution Goals

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