Here we are, facing down the New Year’s resolution conundrum. After fifty-plus trips around the sun, we’ve all been through this rodeo enough times to know how it usually ends: face-down in a pile of Valentine’s Day chocolate by February 15th.
Studies show that 70-80% of resolutions get tossed faster than an uncomfortable pair of underwear. But before we get too cynical about the whole “new year, new me” debacle, let’s look at how we can make this old tradition new again and set ourselves up to make the most of 2025.
5 Ways to Make a Resolution Evolution
1. The “25 for ’25” Challenge
There’s a social media trend happening where people are making 25 resolutions for 2025. I know what you’re thinking—twenty-five?! I can barely remember where I put my reading glasses, let alone keep track of 25 different goals. But here’s the twist: they’re meant to be small, achievable things that actually sound fun. Like:
- Pet every dog that crosses my path
- Perfect my margarita recipe
- Learn to parallel park wearing a blindfold
- Try 25 pickle brands and find the best one
2. Get Specific (Because “Being Better” is Not a Plan)
Instead of vague goals like “exercise more” or “save money” (which, let’s be honest, could mean anything from clipping coupons to selling a kidney), try getting super specific:
- Put $10 from each paycheck into a free high-yield savings account labeled “Manifestation Fund”
- Walk around the block every time I watch a true crime documentary
- Learn to make one killer dessert that doesn’t come from a box
- Instead of “Find new friends” make a resolution to try one of these tips
3. Name Your Year
Rather than a resolution, choose a theme for your year. Think of it as your personal 2025 tagline:
- “My Year of Not Giving a Hoot” (liberation from other people’s opinions)
- “My Year of Green” (money, plants, and maybe that kale smoothie you’ve been avoiding)
- “My Year of Calm” (downloading a meditation app, late night bubble baths, less reality tv drama)
4. Introduce Yourself to Our AI Overlords
If you haven’t dipped your toe into the AI pool yet, it’s time. These digital know-it-alls can actually be pretty helpful when it comes to planning. You could start with a prompt about how you want to feel by the end of 2025 then ask it to create a step-by-step program or a list of fun goal-related activities. Play around with your prompts and ask follow-up questions until you have a clear plan to set into action. If nothing else, you’ll be able to check ‘try AI’ off your list.
Almost every AI platform offers a free version, here are a few that are powerful enough to help:
5. The Monthly Mini-Resolution (12 Chances to Get It Right)
Break your year into 12 bite-sized pieces, like an advent calendar for self-improvement. Each month gets its own manageable goal:
- January: No stretch pants in public * Reward: Buy actual pants that don’t judge you
- February: Learn one TikTok dance * Reward: Invite the girls over to witness (not record) your accomplishment
- March: Update emergency contact list * Reward: Peace of mind is it’s own reward
You get the idea.
Summarizing Your Future
Whether you choose one of these approaches or forge your own path, remember that it’s not a resolution is not a requirement. Maybe your only resolution is to stop making resolutions—and that’s perfectly fine too.
What’s your take on resolutions? Share your plans—or lack thereof—in the comments below.
