Researchers: New Year's resolutions are not about willpower

First, it's about adding positive habits. Great science analysis We took a closer look at six studies involving a total of 2,200 participants, who had all sorts of goals for everything from starting to exercise and eating healthy to meditating.

Positive habits and measurable ambitions

In all six studies, people who created a routine and added positive habits were more likely to reach the goal. The researchers found that positive habits and routines were significantly more effective than determination and willpower when it came to sticking to the plan.

Another effective strategy is to set a specific, measurable goal, such as walking at least 10,000 steps per day. By aiming for something tangible and measurable, it's easier to stay motivated. She showed one Great study Of ten million marathon runners, their goal was to be able to complete a distance of approximately 42 kilometers in less than four hours.

The number of runners who completed the race in three hours and 59 minutes was significantly greater than the number of runners who completed the race in four hours and one minute. In light of this, the researchers believe the most likely explanation is that people know when they are on track to achieve a goal and that this helps with motivation.