Why Resolutions Fail (And What Actually Works!)

Every January, millions of us grab our pens (or let’s be real, our phones) and jot down lofty goals:

• “This year, I will lose 20 pounds!”
• “I will save $5,000!”
• “I will finally learn to play the ukulele!”

Fast forward to February, and what do we have? A gym membership collecting dust, a savings account that looks eerily similar to last year’s, and a ukulele that hasn’t been tuned since purchase. But hey, at least we tried, right?

Why Resolutions Fail (And Why It’s Hilariously Okay)

1. Comfort is King

• The human brain is wired to avoid effort.
• Netflix > Gym
• Takeout > Cooking
• Couch > Literally anything else

2. The Illusion of Transformation

• Writing goals feels productive.
• Actually doing them? Not so much.
• If procrastination were an Olympic sport, we’d all have gold medals.

3. Life Happens

• Sometimes, change happens when you least expect it.
• Maybe you’ll accidentally join a salsa class or discover a passion while doom-scrolling Instagram at 2 AM.
• Who knew watching dance videos could lead to a midlife crisis?

Ah, the classic art of dodging change!

Here are a few of the most ridiculous (but relatable) excuses people—myself included—have used:

1. “I’ll start on Monday.” – Because clearly, starting on a random Tuesday is too chaotic.

2. “I need to finish this season first.” – As if binge-watching an entire series is a prerequisite for personal growth.

3. “I can’t change now; Mercury is in retrograde!” – If the universe is against you, how can you possibly be expected to make progress?

4. “I’m waiting for the perfect moment.” – Spoiler alert: That moment doesn’t exist.

5. “I’ll change when I have more time.” – Because time is just lying around waiting for us to pick it up like a forgotten sock.

6. “I’m too tired to change right now.” – This one’s rich coming from someone who just spent three hours scrolling social media.

7. “But I love my bad habits!” – Let’s be honest, pizza at 2 AM and Netflix marathons are hard to quit.

So, what’s the most common excuse you’ve heard (or used)? Hit me up—I wanna hear it! support@brianmj.com

The Unexpected Truth About Change

Here’s a mind-blowing revelation: Change happens when you least expect it.

• You don’t need a perfect plan. Sometimes, small, random shifts lead to the biggest transformations.
• Maybe you’ll meet someone who changes your perspective or find motivation in the most unexpected place.

How to Actually Make Something Happen

✅ Embrace Imperfection – Your journey doesn’t need to look Instagram-perfect. If your life were a movie, it’d be a comedy—so embrace the awkward moments!

✅ Go With the Flow – Some of life’s best moments are unplanned. Like that time you went out for “one drink” and ended up belting out I Will Survive at karaoke.

✅ Celebrate Tiny Wins – Managed to drink water today? YOU’RE A CHAMPION! Got out of bed before noon? You deserve a medal (or another slice of pizza).

Why Change (or Not Changing) is Deeply Personal

1. The Nature of Change

• Change isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s about what aligns with your values.
• Authenticity matters. Embracing who you are, flaws and all, can be just as valid as pursuing self-improvement.

2. The Influence of Society

• Society promotes constant self-improvement, but that pressure isn’t always helpful.
• FOMO can make you think you should change when you might already be content.

3. The Reality of Following the Crowd

• Many set resolutions because it’s trendy, not because they want to change.
• Group accountability can be great—but not if you’re chasing goals that don’t resonate with you.

4. Finding Your Own Path

• Self-reflection matters. Ask yourself: Do I actually want this, or do I feel pressured?
• Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Maybe it’s career growth, deeper relationships, or just enjoying life as it is.

5. The Balance Between Stability and Growth

• Stability isn’t failure—sometimes, maintaining what makes you happy is the real win.
• Growth is optional. If you’re content, you don’t have to change just for the sake of it.

The Real Secret Sauce

Forget everything you’ve been told about self-improvement. The magic happens when you:

• Stop trying so hard—seriously, relax!
• Laugh at yourself; life is too short to take it seriously.
• Accept that you’re gloriously, messily human—embrace your inner hot mess!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re team “New Year, New Me” or team “Meh, I’m good,” the choice is yours. Just make sure whatever you do (or don’t do) is your decision—not society’s.

But if you are ready to start making real shifts that actually stick, I’ve got something for you. 🎁

I put together a FREE guide: “3 Steps to Attract Greater Opportunities.” It’s not about impossible goals—it’s about unlocking real change that aligns with who you are and where you want to go.

📥 Download it here 👉 [FREE guide]

👉 If you’re serious about change, let’s chat! support@brianmj.com—I’m here for your self-improvement shenanigans and pep talks.

👉 If not? No worries! Either way, let’s keep it real and have some fun along the way! 🍕🎉