Why 80% of New Year’s Resolutions Fail (And How to Make Yours Stick)
Have you ever found yourself making the same New Year’s resolution year after year?
Don’t worry, this is more common than you realise. In fact, there’s a scientifically recognised phenomenon called “Fall Off the Wagon Day”—and it happens just 40 days into the new year, typically in the second week of February.
Think back to last January. Perhaps you committed to getting fit, eating healthier, or finally writing that book.
Like millions of others, you started with boundless enthusiasm. You hit the gym, stocked up on vegetables, or opened that fresh notebook.
But somewhere along the way, those good intentions faded into the background of daily life.
The Science Behind Why Resolutions Don’t Stick
What makes these annual commitments so notoriously difficult to maintain?
The answer lies not in lack of willpower, but in how our brains process change. Research shows that lasting transformation requires more than just wishful thinking:
It demands a complete ‘re-solution’ to the way we approach personal growth.
The Critical Difference Between Choosing and Wishing
Here’s what most people don’t realise: there’s a fundamental difference between choosing to change and merely wishing for change.
When you truly choose something, you activate different neural pathways in your brain, creating stronger foundations for lasting habits.
To break free from the cycle of failed resolutions, you need more than just good intentions. You need a proven framework:
- Direction: Clearly defining not just what you want to achieve, but who you want to become.
- Drive: Understanding your deep motivations that will fuel consistent action.
- Destination: Creating measurable milestones that keep you on track.
Breaking Through Your Hidden Barriers
The single biggest obstacle holding most people back isn’t lack of motivation—it’s not having the right system in place. Consider this:
Every habit, whether positive or negative, serves a purpose.
The key is not to fight against old patterns, but to consciously create new ones that better serve your goals.
Small Steps, Massive Impact
Start with these two powerful micro-habits:
- Replace “I should” with “I choose to” in your daily vocabulary.
- Spend 2 minutes each morning visualising your desired outcome.
Ready to Make This Year Different?
Imagine reaching next December knowing you’ve not just maintained your resolution, but transformed it into a natural part of who you are.
No more falling off the wagon in February. No more starting over each January.
Whether you’re aiming to:
- Transform your health and fitness.
- Advance your career.
- Improve your relationships.
- Achieve personal goals.
- Build lasting habits.
You can create lasting change with the right support and strategy.
Take the First Step Today
Are you ready to stop the cycle of broken resolutions and start creating lasting change?
Let’s work together to make this year different.
👉 Book your complimentary Discovery Session today and discover how personalised life coaching can help you achieve the transformation you’ve been seeking.
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Dr. Scott Zarcinas (aka DoctorZed) is a doctor, author, and transformational life coach specialising in helping professionals transform their New Year’s resolutions into lasting lifestyle changes. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, he works with clients through personalised coaching programmes designed to create sustainable success.