New Year's Resolutions in 2021: Perspectives and Insights

Key Findings:

• Despite the challenges of 2020, a majority of individuals plan to make New Year's resolutions.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on goal achievement and resolution-making.
• Physical health, mental well-being, and relationship improvement are top priorities for resolutions in 2021.

Introduction:

As we embark on a new year, people around the world take time to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future. New Year's resolutions are a popular tradition that offers an opportunity for self-improvement and goal-setting. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented uncertainty and challenges. Despite these obstacles, many individuals remain committed to making resolutions for 2021.

Survey Results:

A recent survey conducted among Verywell Mind readers revealed that a significant 64% plan to make New Year's resolutions this year. Interestingly, 30% of respondents indicated that the pandemic had motivated them to set resolutions, suggesting that the challenges of 2020 have inspired some to take proactive steps towards self-improvement.

Impact of the Pandemic on Goal Achievement:

While the pandemic has disrupted goal achievement in 2020, it hasn't completely deterred people from setting goals. Only 16% of survey respondents stated that the pandemic had discouraged them from making resolutions. This resilience and determination to set goals amidst uncertainty are commendable.

Focus on Physical and Mental Health:

When asked about the types of resolutions they planned to make, a significant 80% of readers prioritized physical health goals, reflecting a collective desire to prioritize health after a year of limited outdoor activity and gym closures. Mental health and relationships also emerged as key areas of focus, with 40% and 30% of respondents respectively mentioning these as resolution targets.

Challenges of Meeting Resolutions:

Despite the enthusiasm for resolutions, only 60% of respondents reported sometimes meeting their goals, while 36% rarely or never met them. This highlights the challenges of maintaining motivation and consistency in goal pursuit.

Tips for Resolution Success:

Amy Morin, a licensed clinical social worker, emphasizes the importance of setting actionable, measurable, and reasonable resolutions. She recommends tracking progress, having a check-in buddy, and setting achievable deadlines to increase the likelihood of success.

Conclusion:

The survey findings suggest that people are not discouraged by the challenges of 2020 and are finding motivation in them to set New Year's resolutions. Physical and mental health are key areas of focus, reflecting a collective desire for self-improvement and resilience. While not everyone may achieve their resolutions, the determination to set goals and work towards them is a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive.