As 2025 approaches, I, like many of you, find myself reflecting on the year that has passed and beginning to establish goals for the new year. These goals often take the form of New Year Resolutions.
You know what I mean; I RESOLVE TO _____________ in 2025.
Here is a list of the top 10 resolutions for January 1, 2024:
- Exercise more
- Eat healthier
- Lose weight
- Save more money
- Spend more time with family/friends
- Learn something new
- Quit smoking
- Help others achieve their goals
- Fall in love
- Prioritize mental health
The ultimate secret to self-control is to build something we call “rituals” — meaning highly precise behaviors, done at specific times, until they become automatic so they no longer drain your reservoir and undermine your capacity for self-control.
TONY SCHWARTZ
Some are specific, while others are broad. I mean, really…I RESOLVE TO LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST!? What does that even mean? It’s easy for resolutions to derail when life throws curveballs like unexpected layoffs or medical expenses.
Research shows that around 38.5% of U.S. adults set New Year’s resolutions each year, with younger adults (ages 18-34) being the most likely to participate. However, the reality is that maintaining these resolutions can be challenging. Only about 9% of people feel successful in keeping their resolutions by the end of the year. In fact, 23% give up by the end of the first week, and only 36% make it past the first month.
This highlights the gap between setting resolutions and achieving them. I believe that gap can be bridged by one word: Discipline. According to, “The Skill That Matters Most” from Harvard Business Review self-control or discipline in achieving personal and professional success.
Discipline isn’t a checklist or a system of processes—though I wish it were. I love to-do lists and have one for everything: housework, books to read, daily tasks, dreams, expectations, prayers, and more. I imagine you do too. Even if you don’t write them down, you likely have mental lists, goals, and resolutions. But having lists doesn’t mean having discipline.
Discipline is the bridge between resolutions and results. It’s a state of mind—an attitude that requires cultivation and nurturing. Success in any area begins with winning the mental battle.
Discipline changes everything:
Want to lose weight? Discipline is required.
Want to raise compassionate, successful children? Discipline is necessary.
Want to learn more or advance in your career? Discipline will get you there.
Want to spend more quality time with family? Discipline with time management is essential.
In 2025, my resolution remains the same: Discipline. It may not be flashy, but it’s the key to achieving lasting results.