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Since the 19^th century, making New Year’s resolutions – as an expression of intent to change in the year to come – has become a steadfast staple of the New Year’s tradition in the U.S.

Consider this, people have been making resolutions as far back as the Babylonians in 2000 B.C., according to some historians. Seriously, for centuries! However, it was the Romans who ushered in the coupling of resolutions with the New Year and it wasn’t until the late 1700s that the West adopted resolutions as we know them today.

When Christmas first became a recognized holiday by the U.S. federal government in 1870 the act of making resolutions took hold with all the seasonal festivities and, well, here we are.

Today, an average of about 30 percent of Americans make resolutions – with people ages 18 to late 40s topping the list of change makers. Most resolutions are fitness-oriented, with commitments to lifestyle changes, eating better, moving more and finding better ways to deal with stress.

According to a 2023 survey by Forbes Health more than half of Americans feel “pressured” to make a resolution, but those who commit feel quite confident in their ability to stay the course of change.

On average, resolutions generally last into the early weeks of spring before they’re abandoned, Forbes Health found. The types of goals set seem to have a correlation to how well they’re kept.

All things considered, though, resolutions have a certain beauty about them in that you don’t need the stroke of midnight or a glittering, crystal-covered ball to announce the start of change.

But, admittedly, there is something magical about the hallmark ball drop and knowledge that we are starting a brand new journey around the sun.

So, that being said... 

As a rule, I generally make a resolution or two, but I know better than to commit to drastic change as it never sticks.

Last year was one of immense change and I am looking forward to what 2026 has in store. I am committing to being more present in the new year (no sense in looking forward or back as now is all we have), to be more patient with myself as I navigate what life has to offer, and to accept challenges with a smile and understanding that they are merely side quests presenting opportunities to learn and grow. Life has so much to offer, it’s time to ENJOY it for all it is, and to never forget the blessing that is this human experience.

Recently, I sent out an inquiry to our HSJ Online family asking about their resolutions for 2026. Their mission, if they chose to accept, was to share their resolutions and thoughts about the tradition...

Here’s what some of the HSJ family had to say about their commitments to change in the coming year…  

“1. I’d like to be positive enough to celebrate yesterday, embrace today, and anticipate tomorrow. 2. If someone says “yada yada yada” or “this and that” more than twice in a conversation, I’m going to ask for clarification.” – Larry Perkinson, HSJ Contributing Writer

“To spend less time on the blue screen and more time walking, reflecting, and clearing out mental and physical clutter.” – David Webster, HSJ Contributing Writer and HSJ Board Member

“You know I don't care for them [resolutions]. I could say I will average walking a mile a day, every day in 2026. But then I would need to walk to South Bend and back next New Year's Eve. Or cut back on sugars and carbs, but have had a donut in Louisiana? I'm headed there in April. I think I will make an effort to be nicer. Especially regarding things that I don't like. I'm off to a good start.” – Michael Dean, HSJ Board Member

“To consume fewer carbohydrates.
To spend more time playing mandolin.
To spend more time on my horse.
To finish writing my book.” – Dan Fleming, HSJ Contributing Writer

“Make a more deliberate effort to let those closest to me know how much I appreciate them and how fortunate I am to have them in my life. Whether it be hiking in a state park, riding a bike, reading, writing...focus more on the "here and now" and less on the past & future.” – Todd Grimes, HSJ Contributing Writer

“I resolve to eat more ice cream and more pizza, to hire someone to exercise for me, and to finish my book entitled “The Joy of Obesity.” – Bud Herron, HSJ Online Board Member

“To do a daily devotion, eat less and better, exercise regularly.  Read one new book to completion, or even one of those I haven’t finished.  Organize my life.” – Scott Strietelmeier, HSJ Online Board Member

“I don’t usually make resolutions because I don’t seem to ever keep them. So, I’ll resolve to play more pickleball and read every chance I get. I know I will be able to commit to those two things.” – Jennifer Villiger, HSJ Online Board Member