More importantly, do you keep them?
Statistically, we don't. John C. Norcross a professor of psychology at the University of Scranton found that 71 percent of participants in his study kept their resolutions for two weeks, 64 percent for a month and 50 percent for three months.
So why even bother to make one?
To make you feel like you're making a change, or because you really, genuinely believe that it will work this time?
The other night I was talking with a friend and somehow or other the subject turned to New Years Resolutions. We both new that no one actually keeps their resolution, but you still have to make them, and of course you have to talk about them. That way when you inevitably fail you will be embarrassed and ashamed.
Y'know, like my 40 minute writing challenge, that lasted for exactly one day. Or this blog, which was originally supposed to be a weight loss blog.
I'm not sure that's required, or why I am so dead set on making my failures public. Maybe it's because I want there to be legit proof that I tried. Maybe I just cave under pressure?
I'm taking psychology in the spring, so I'll let you know what my diagnosis is then
So basically what I'm asking is this: Do you believe in New Years Resolutions? Do you think I should make on? Am I just talking to myself?
information borrowed from here: http://www.woai.com/guides/holiday/story/Will-you-keep-New-Years-resolutions-Most-people/VVSIkrlSw0O_b-h4QmaPqQ.cspx
I make them, and I've worked on following through more as I get older. Last year it was to lose weight, and I dropped about 30 pounds over the year. This year it's stopping drinking soda. I think you should make one. One thing that helps is if you can find a buddy who makes the same resolution. this let's you help each other and makes it much more likely you can follow through!
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking it's pretty dependent on what sort of goal you set for yourself. I am thinking a sort of vague resolution might work.
ReplyDeletemaybe