Why Your New Year Resolutions Fail Every Year... Try These Hacks to Meet Your Goals!
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Every January, gyms fill up with hopeful faces ready to embrace the "new year, new me" mindset. Yet, by February, many of those same gyms see a sharp drop in attendance. Why do so many new year resolutions fail within just a few weeks? And why do gyms seem to benefit from this cycle?
If you’re new to fitness or a woman like myself already navigating the changes of perimenopause on top of this, than your patience is already worn thin with the trying to get into shape. But there is hope... understanding these patterns can help you set goals that last.
1. Setting Unrealistic Expectations
One common reason new year resolutions fail is that people set goals that are too ambitious or vague. Saying "I want to lose 20 pounds in a month" or "I will work out every day" can quickly lead to burnout or disappointment. When goals feel overwhelming, motivation drops fast.
Better approach:
Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps. For example, aim to exercise twice a week for 30 minutes rather than every day. Celebrate small wins like completing your first week of workouts.
2. Lack of a Clear Plan
Many resolutions start with enthusiasm but lack a concrete plan. Without knowing exactly how to reach your goal, it’s easy to get stuck or lose direction. Gyms capitalize on this by offering short-term promotions and classes that attract the "new year, new me" crowd, but they don’t always provide ongoing support.
Better approach:
Create a simple schedule or checklist. Write down when and where you will exercise, what type of activity you will do, and how you will track progress. This clarity makes it easier to stay on track.
3. Ignoring Personal Circumstances
New year resolutions often ignore individual factors like lifestyle, health, or hormonal changes. For perimenopausal women, fluctuating energy levels and changing metabolism can make traditional fitness goals harder to reach. Trying to follow generic advice without adjustments can lead to frustration.
Better approach:
Tailor your goals to your current situation. If energy is low, focus on gentle activities like walking or yoga. Consult with a healthcare provider or fitness coach who understands perimenopause to create a realistic plan.
4. Relying on Motivation Alone
Motivation is unpredictable. It can be high at the start but quickly fade when life gets busy or challenges arise. Gyms know this and often bank on people signing up during peak motivation periods, knowing many will drop out later.
Better approach:
Build habits that don’t rely solely on motivation. Set reminders, prepare your workout clothes the night before, or find an accountability partner. Habits create consistency even when motivation dips.
5. Not Tracking Progress or Adjusting Goals
Without tracking progress, it’s hard to see improvement or know when to adjust goals. This can lead to discouragement or stagnation. Many people give up because they feel like they aren’t making any difference.
Better approach:
Use simple tools like a journal, app, or photos to track your progress. Review your goals regularly and adjust them if needed. For example, if walking 30 minutes feels easy, increase to 40 minutes or add light weights.
How to Choose Hacks You Can Actually Stick To
Make goals specific and realistic
Instead of "get fit," try "walk 20 minutes three times a week." Specific goals are easier to plan and measure.
Focus on habits, not outcomes
Aim to build consistent habits like drinking more water or stretching daily. These small changes add up over time.
Consider your lifestyle and health
Choose activities you enjoy and that fit your schedule. If you’re dealing with perimenopause symptoms, prioritize self-care and listen to your body.
Use support systems
Join a Zumba Class (wink wink), find a workout buddy, or hire a coach who understands your needs. Support increases accountability and motivation.
Celebrate progress
Recognize every step forward, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement keeps you engaged.
My Take on New Year Resolutions?
New year resolutions often fail because they are too broad, unrealistic, or disconnected from personal needs. Gyms benefit from this cycle by attracting a surge of new members who quickly drop off. Why this system works is because gyms profit more from members that do not attend yet are stuck in annual contracts.
While gym memberships can help you be more accountable... you still have to go. There's a saying that the heaviest weight at the gym is the front door. Find a gym that works best with your travel and commute, as well as schedule.
Instead of following the crowd, focus on setting clear, manageable goals tailored to your lifestyle and health. Build habits that last, track your progress, and seek support when needed. This approach will help you create lasting change beyond the first few weeks of the year.
Disclaimer:
The tips and information shared in this blog are for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions regarding your physical or mental health, including starting any new exercise or nutrition program, especially if you have underlying medical conditions, injuries, or mental health concerns.
