Making resolutions is easy. Sticking to them? Not so much.
Whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, or saving money, many of us start with good intentions but lose momentum after a few weeks. But some people do manage to see their goals through. What sets them apart? It definitely helps that people who stick to their resolutions often have these traits.
1. They set clear and specific goals.
Rather than vague promises like “get fit” or “save money,” these people know exactly what they want to achieve. They might say, “Go to the gym three times a week” or “Save £200 a month.” Specific goals give them a clear target to aim for, making it easier to track progress.
2. They break goals into smaller steps.
Big goals can feel overwhelming, so they break them down into manageable chunks. Instead of thinking, “I need to lose 20 pounds,” they focus on losing 2 pounds at a time. Small wins add up and keep motivation high, making long-term goals feel less daunting.
3. They create a routine and stick to it.
People who follow through on their resolutions build habits that support their goals. They don’t rely on willpower alone — they schedule time for their new habit and make it part of their daily or weekly routine. This consistency helps turn their resolutions into lasting changes.
4. They know their “why.”
Having a clear reason behind their goal keeps them grounded. Whether it’s improving their health, saving for a trip, or learning a new skill, knowing why they want to achieve something helps them push through tough moments. Their motivation is more than just a fleeting desire.
5. They stay flexible when things don’t go to plan.
Life happens, and sticking to resolutions isn’t always smooth sailing. Those who succeed know how to adjust their plans when obstacles arise. If they miss a workout or overspend one week, they don’t give up — they just get back on track the next day.
6. They track their progress regularly.
Whether it’s with a journal, an app, or a simple checklist, they monitor their progress. Seeing how far they’ve come keeps them motivated and helps them spot patterns. Regular check-ins also allow them to tweak their approach if something isn’t working.
7. They celebrate small victories.
Sticking to resolutions can be a long road, so they celebrate the small milestones along the way. Maybe it’s treating themselves to a new book after hitting a fitness goal or enjoying a night out after sticking to a budget for a month. Recognising progress keeps things fun and rewarding.
8. They have realistic expectations.
People who achieve their goals don’t expect instant results. They know that change takes time and effort. By setting achievable milestones, they avoid the frustration that comes from unrealistic expectations and stay motivated to keep going.
9. They hold themselves accountable.
Whether it’s through friends, family, or apps, they find ways to stay accountable. Maybe they join a group class, share their goals with a buddy, or post updates online. Knowing someone else is aware of their progress helps them stay committed, even when motivation dips.
10. They focus on progress, not perfection.
Source: Unsplash Instead of aiming for perfection, they aim for consistency. They know that occasional slip-ups are normal and don’t let one bad day derail them. Progress, no matter how small, is what matters most. This mindset helps them stay positive and resilient.
11. They limit distractions and temptations.
Source: Unsplash They set themselves up for success by creating an environment that supports their goals. If they’re trying to eat healthier, they keep their kitchen stocked with good options. If they’re aiming to save money, they unsubscribe from tempting shopping emails. Out of sight, out of mind.
12. They stay patient and persistent.
Source: Unsplash Lasting change doesn’t happen overnight, and they know it. They’re willing to keep going, even when progress feels slow. Their patience and persistence help them push through the challenging parts until their new habits stick. Giving up isn’t an option for them.
13. They learn from setbacks instead of giving up.
Source: Unsplash When things go wrong, they see it as a learning opportunity. Instead of beating themselves up, they ask, “What can I do differently next time?” This approach helps them stay focused on solutions and improves their chances of long-term success.
14. They stay positive and believe in themselves.
Self-belief plays a huge role in sticking to resolutions. Even when things get tough, they remind themselves that they can achieve their goals. Positive self-talk and a can-do attitude help them stay motivated and push through challenges.
