Why You Shouldn’t Make New Year’s Resolutions
Have you ever made a New Year’s resolution, only to give up before February? You’re not alone—most people do. But what if there’s a better way to make lasting changes?
Today, I want to explore the idea of rethinking New Year’s resolutions and why they might not be the best approach for lasting change. I’ll focus on health-related resolutions like going to the gym or an exercise class more often or losing weight because these account for about 30% of resolutions among Canadians.
This might sound controversial since many people see the new year as a perfect time for change. But here’s the thing: 80% of people fail their resolutions by February. I’ve seen this pattern with many of my clients—they start very motivated in January, but by February, they’re feeling burnt out. Let’s talk about a better approach.
Why New Year Isn’t the Best Time for Change
In my experience, the best time to start a new habit isn’t January 1st. While many people feel motivated at the start of the new year, I’ve found that other times of the year can be more practical and sustainable. The start of a new year can feel like a lot of pressure—there’s this expectation to make big changes all at once, which can feel overwhelming and artificial.
I started going to the gym regularly in October 2014, motivated to make progress before the end of the year. Recently, on December 7th, 2024, I made another shift—increasing my gym visits which had dropped down from twice a week in 2024 to four times. I didn’t wait for a new year; I just felt ready to make a change and went for it. There’s something about making the most of the remaining weeks or months that feels more motivating and less pressured than waiting for January.
So, if January 1st isn’t the best time to start, then when is? The answer: Anytime you feel ready.
How to Make Habits Stick
In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear offers practical strategies for building habits that last. I found this book very helpful in my own journey to create sustainable habits, particularly when I started going to the gym. His tips are simple yet powerful, and they align perfectly with what I share with my clients. Here are two of my favourites:
1. Start Small
Instead of setting a massive goal like “I’ll work out for an hour every day,” start small.
Example:
Walk for 10 minutes three times a week.
Do one strength exercise per day (10 repetitions of a sit-to-stand or a squat).
Attend one of my group exercise classes per week (contact me for more information).
Starting small builds momentum and reduces the chances of feeling overwhelmed.
2. Use the 2-Minute Rule
The 2-Minute Rule is simple: If it takes less than two minutes, do it immediately.
Why? Because it reduces the time your brain has to start rationalizing why you shouldn’t do the thing.
Examples:
Pack your gym bag and put it in your car, so you don’t have to think about making it when you decide to go to the gym.
Lay out your workout clothes the night before.
These small actions make it easier to follow through.
Don’t Wait for the Perfect Time
The biggest takeaway is this: Don’t wait for the new year, next Monday, or the start of a new quarter to make a change. I often hear this from prospective clients: 'I'll start next Monday' or 'Maybe next month would be better.' But here's the truth—there’s no perfect time to start. Once you begin, you’ll likely find yourself saying, 'I wish I’d started earlier.' So why not today?
Whether it’s starting a fitness routine, learning a new skill, starting a new hobby or simply taking time for yourself—remember, you’re never too old to make a change. The best time to start is when you feel ready. So go for it! The rest is just arbitrary rules we impose on ourselves.
Final Thoughts: New Year, Same Me (But Older 😉)
I wish you the most wonderful start to the year! And remember, it’s okay to be the same person you were last year—as long as you keep growing.
If you liked this newsletter, please share it with a friend who might need a little encouragement to start their own journey.
Here’s to a New Year and the Same Me… but older and wiser! 😉
You’ve got this. Just do the thing!
And remember, be kind to yourself and others! See you next time,
Dr. Loïse
Are you in your sixties and want to get tips and insights on how to live a long and happy life? Are you a millennial witnessing your parents’s journey and wishing for them to thrive? Curious about the secrets to a contented life? If so, this newsletter is for you. Subscribe below if you find the content helpful — I truly appreciate it! Thank you!