The first day of a new year is filled with fireworks for some, and a long list of goals for others. The new year is a time for many to reinvent themselves, end bad habits and start a healthy lifestyle. While New Year’s resolutions can be useful for some, starting the year off with a list of unreachable goals can set you up for a pattern of failure.

On one side, you have the people who make a list of resolutions and look forward to the new year optimistically. 

On the other side, you have people who will not partake in the annual let down that comes with writing a list of goals they will never meet. And these people have good reasons to back them up. 

According to a study in The Atlantic, hyper-focusing on your goals causes lower achievement. 

Most people who participate in New Year’s resolutions try to mold their entire life around these goals, and are disappointed when they fail.

While some people can break the old belief that New Year’s resolutions only last two weeks, most people set goals and are let down within a month. 

Only 19% of individuals can stick to long-term goals, according to Business Insider. 

I understand the thought process behind New Year’s resolutions, but if you are going to make them, stick to them. I have made resolutions in the past and have not committed to them. I choose now to focus on smaller goals that are more achievable. 

Psychology Today recommends making goals that easily fit into your everyday life.

 Instead of a goal to work out more, it suggests setting a goal to take the stairs every morning or go on a 10-minute walk.

Go into the new year with an accepting attitude toward change. But do yourself a favor and do not set yourself up for failure. 

If you want to lose weight or start a new hobby, do it. But don’t try to reinvent yourself all at once. Take it slow and the change will come. 

You should not need New Year’s resolutions to have a good year. Go out there, be you and make 2022 your year.