As the calendar turns to 2026, many people are setting ambitious goals for the year ahead. However, research suggests that the majority of New Year's resolutions are abandoned within just a few weeks.

Experts from organisations such as the American Psychological Association and Kaiser Permanente Georgia suggest that the secret to success lies in small, manageable changes rather than radical overhauls.

 

The Power of "SMART" Planning

To ensure a resolution is more than just a passing thought, experts recommend using the SMART framework. This means goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Instead of a vague aim like "eating healthier," a specific goal would be "eating one piece of fruit with lunch every day."

Writing these goals down physically can also help to clarify priorities and keep the objective clear.

"Setting New Year's resolutions could be very beneficial because it helps to promote change, it gives us a little bit of hope, and it gives us a goal to work towards."

Start Small and Be Patient

A common mistake is trying to change too much at once. Experts suggest focusing on only one or two habits at a time.

If you want to exercise more, start with three days a week rather than seven.

It is also vital to understand your "why". Identifying the deep, personal reason behind a goal helps build the internal motivation needed to keep going when things get difficult.

For those starting a new fitness routine, Dr Razuko from Priority Health advises checking in with a doctor before beginning.

Habit Stacking and Reminders

Success often depends on your environment. Experts suggest "habit stacking," which involves attaching a new goal to an existing habit. For example, you might decide to meditate for one minute immediately after brushing your teeth.

Technology can also play a role. Setting phone alarms or changing your lock screen wallpaper to reflect your goal keeps the resolution at the front of your mind.

The "Reset" Mindset

Slip-ups are a natural part of the process. Many people feel they have failed after one mistake, but experts encourage a different approach.

Read Also: In Photos: See How Different Cities Welcomed The New Year 2026 Around The World

"The big thing to think about with restarting goals... is just that I'm going to rest, reset, resume instead of thinking about myself as a failure."

If the post-holiday period

feels too hectic, it is perfectly acceptable to wait until you feel ready to start.

Sharing your progress with an accountability partner or a friend can provide the necessary support to get back on track.

Ultimately, real change is built on consistency rather than perfection. By breaking big goals into tiny, actionable steps, the journey toward a better 2026 becomes much more achievable.

According to health experts, a little bit of grace and patience can go a long way in turning a resolution into a lifelong habit.