Every January, we hear “new year, new you.”

We’re encouraged to improve ourselves. And it’s promoted by making New Year’s resolutions.

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions?

It’s hard not to become caught up in the hype for change.

Retailers and service providers promote this concept through advertisements.

We see it as we scroll social media, watch television, and listen to music.

We’re encouraged to eat healthier, get fit, and even organize our homes.

But with all this encouragement, why are we making the same resolutions year after year?

How many years have you made the same New Year’s resolutions?

The excuses for not keeping resolutions vary. It may be:

…loss of motivation

…change not happening as quickly as thought

…not enough time

…harder than initially thought

If your New Year’s resolutions are the same every year, maybe your approach is wrong.


Yes, we should be excited about a new year and the opportunity to have 365 days to improve our life.

But what if we changed our expectations – maybe we’re expecting too much too soon?

Instead of wanting to change many things, why not start by focusing on one item?

And break down that one item into smaller steps.


Here are some examples:

If you need to lose weight, start by increasing your daily water intake to at least eight 8oz glasses. Once you’ve mastered that goal, then start reducing meal portions.

If you need to get your finances in order, start by hiring a CFP® to develop a financial plan. Once you have a financial plan, you can prioritize your financal goals.

If you need to organize your home, start by changing one drawer or cabinet. Once you’ve finished that area, then start on another area.

If you need to reduce stress, start by getting more sleep. Once you have a new sleep routine, then begin finding at least 2 minutes in your day to breathe deeply, gradually increasing that time.

Take your big expectations and break them down into smaller targets. It may take longer to accomplish everything, but it will be easier to stay motivated.


Before giving up on your New Year’s resolutions, re-evaluate your approach, then recommit.

Pick only one thing to address and focus your energy on that one item.

Break it down into smaller steps to keep yourself motivated.

By making these adjustments, you’ll make 2023 your best year ever!

(Update to original post from January 12, 2017)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing  comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, RICP®, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing spending plans, comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”