The Resolution Zero Project – Month 1: Identifying the problem

This year is going to be my year! This year is going to be different. This year I will make it happen.

 Rings a bell?

 Each year 45% of Americans make resolutions. Popular goals include but are not limited to weight loss, staying fit, spend less and learn something new. The concept of promising to do an act of self-improvement in the New Year goes backs as far as 2000 BC, when the Babylonians offered resolutions to their Gods. However, the format we’re familiar with was born and evolved in the 20th century. (For a more complete history, visit this site).

A study conducted in 2007 by Richard Wiseman of the University of Bristol revealed that “88% of those who set New Year resolution fail.”(1) Further studies have also shown that 25% of people will keep their resolution for about a week and that after 26 weeks, only 46% of people will still be keeping them. (2) 

How is that possible when most people, when making the resolution, take it very seriously and have a real desire to change and better themselves? 

The answer lies in the nature of the resolutions: they are vague, disproportionate and unrealistic. A smoker of twenty decides to go cold Turkey. An overweight person decides to go to the gym every day. Although these goals are commendable, they obviously constitute dramatic changes in the resolution maker’s life and are thus bound to result in failure before they have even been implemented.

 Ok. What then?

 Some people choose not to take resolutions at all, choosing the status quo over the illusion of sudden miraculous redemption. That’s a way to see it but that’s also boring. The other option is to set realistic objectives with defined small steps that will lead, over time, to the accomplishment of your goals. Sounds much better, doesn’t it? 

 This year, my goal is to get a manuscript ready for publication. This is a daunting task and so I’ve decided to create The Resolution Zero Project not only to help myself but to help you get closer to your 2014 goals. In the following weeks, I will be publishing articles, videos and numerous resources to guide you on your journey. I hope many of you will join me in this adventure. 

Your turn! Have you ever made resolutions you didn’t keep? How did that make you feel? Did you ever manage to keep your resolutions? What do you wish to accomplish this year? Let me know! I love hearing from you!