I was reading an article today that referenced a university study reporting that only 8% of people who make New Year’s resolutions actually achieve them. The study suggested this is largely because many people use the new year as an opportunity to create huge bucket lists or attempt extreme personal or professional makeovers.
While it’s a lovely aspiration, the reality is that most of us juggle so many competing priorities that this all or nothing approach is often doomed to fail. When we aim too high, the goal can feel psychologically overwhelming. So daunting, in fact, that we never truly get started.
This year, I’m encouraging you to keep your resolutions short, simple, and realistic. In fact, I’ve even put together a list of 10 easy ideas to help you get started:
- Swap your latte or cappuccino for an Americano with a splash of milk.
This small change can save you thousands of calories over the year and after a few weeks, you may even find a latte too rich to enjoy.
- Take the stairs instead of the escalator or lift whenever you can.
Think how easy it is to sneak in extra steps without even trying!
- Learn to say “no.”
If you don’t want to do something, don’t do it. Be polite, but don’t give in to pressure. Saying yes to things you don’t want drains your energy and takes time away from what truly matters to you.
- Say “yes” more often too!
Being scared isn’t a reason not to try something. Use that fear as a launchpad to step outside your comfort zone. Growth only happens when we stretch ourselves. After all, how will you know if you like something if you never give it a try?
- Do something kind for someone else every day.
Say hello to a stranger, offer a genuine compliment, make a phone call instead of texting, or even write a letter. Connection doesn’t have to cost money, and small gestures can lift both others and your own mood … A true win-win.
- Do something that makes you happy or smile every single day.
Read a few pages of a book, take a short walk outside, enjoy a long bath, meet a friend for a cuppa, play your favourite song loudly, dance around the kitchen, or cook a meal you love. Life is about enjoying the little things. Make time for them.
- If you’re bored with your current fitness routine, change it.
Try a new sport, class, or activity, swimming, dancing, anything! The best exercise isn’t the latest fad. It’s the one you actually enjoy.
- Stop trying to please everyone.
You simply can’t. Make yourself a priority, and everything else will begin to fall into place.
- Spend more time with friends and family.
Less working late. Less endless scrolling. The greatest gift you can give someone is your time, because once it’s given, you can never get it back.
- Be true to yourself.
Never let anyone distract you from your goals. If you can’t put your heart into something, give yourself permission to step away from it.
So, how’s that list to start with? Keep things simple, stay focused, and remember — only commit to what truly matters to you. Let’s make sure you’re part of the 8% this year.
Here’s to becoming the best version of yourself in 2026