Do New Year’s Resolutions Work? Discover the Best Way to Create Healthy Habits After 50
Every year, as the clock ticks down to midnight, millions of people promise themselves that this year will be different.
“I’ll get healthier, lose the weight, exercise more, and eat better.”
Sound familiar?
If you’re over 50 and reading this, chances are you’ve been there.
Maybe you’ve tried setting New Year’s resolutions before, and maybe it worked… for a little while.
But most people find themselves slipping back into old habits by February.
So, do New Year’s resolutions actually work?
And more importantly, are they worth setting in the first place?
Let’s break it down.
Why Resolutions Often Don’t Work
The truth is, resolutions usually fail because they’re based on willpower alone.
You start out motivated and full of good intentions, but life quickly gets in the way.
For example:
- They’re too vague. “I want to get fit” sounds great, but what does it really mean? Without a clear plan, it’s hard to know where to start or how to measure progress.
- They’re too big. Setting a goal like losing 20kg or running a marathon can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to give up when the finish line feels so far away.
- Life happens. Work, family, unexpected challenges – all of it can derail your best-laid plans.
And let’s be honest: at our age, we’ve learned that life doesn’t always play nice.
There’s no shame in admitting that sticking to big changes is hard.
It’s not a sign of weakness – it’s human nature.
Why Resolutions Can Work
The good news?
New Year’s resolutions can work if you approach them the right way.
It’s not about making massive, sweeping changes overnight. I
t’s about setting yourself up for success by focusing on small, achievable steps.
Here’s how:
- Be specific. Instead of “I want to get fit,” try “I’ll walk for 20 minutes three times a week.” Clear, actionable goals are easier to stick to.
- Start small. It’s better to take baby steps than to burn out. Think of it like climbing a staircase – you don’t leap to the top in one jump.
- Focus on habits, not outcomes. Instead of obsessing over losing 10kg, aim to create habits like eating more veggies, drinking more water, or strength training twice a week. The results will come naturally.
- Get support. It’s easier (and more fun) to stick to your goals when you have someone cheering you on. Whether it’s a coach, a friend, or a group of like-minded people, having support can make all the difference.
What to Do Instead of a Resolution
Here’s a thought: what if instead of a New Year’s resolution, you made a New Year’s commitment to yourself?
Not to change your life overnight, but to take one small step toward feeling stronger, healthier, and more confident.
For example, you could commit to:
- Joining a training program that makes you feel supported and empowered.
- Moving your body in a way that feels good for you. (Not what social media says you should do.)
- Saying “yes” to prioritizing your health and happiness – not just for January, but for the long haul.
My Two Cents
At Ignite Fitness, I’ve worked with so many people in their 50s, 60s, and beyond who’ve felt stuck.
They’ve been burned by quick fixes, trendy diets, or unrealistic goals.
What I’ve seen time and again is that it’s not about the perfect plan – it’s about taking that first step and sticking with it long enough to see progress.
So, do New Year’s resolutions work?
They can, but only if they’re done right.
And even if they don’t work for you, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed.
It just means it’s time to try a different approach – one that’s built around your goals, your life, and what really matters to you.
If you’re ready to move better, live longer, and be happier this year, why not reach out?
Let’s start small, build momentum, and make 2025 the year you take control of your health – without the pressure of a resolution hanging over your head.
Ready to take the first step? Let’s talk about how we can help.
That’s it – no pressure, no judgment, just a commitment to making small, meaningful changes that last.
If that sounds good, hot reply to this email and I’ll get you started.
Cheers
Paul