We’re already in the home stretch of the year! And we are sure you’ve started thinking about your resolutions for 2025. Maybe you want to start saving, exercise more, learn something new, or just be a little happier. But let’s be honest, many times those resolutions are forgotten before January is over. So how do we make it different this time? We’ll tell you as if we were having coffee together: the key is to keep it realistic, plan well and take it one step at a time.
First things first: Define your goals clearly
You can’t achieve something you can’t clearly imagine. Instead of saying “I want to be healthier,” specify what that means to you. It could be, “I want to walk 30 minutes a day” or “I want to stop drinking soda.” The clearer you are, the easier it will be to work toward that goal.
A good trick is to use the SMART technique to define your goals: make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. For example, “Save $10,000 by December 2025” meets all of these criteria.
Less is more: Choose achievable goals
One of the most common mistakes is setting too many goals or goals that are unrealistic. Can you really commit to going to the gym six times a week if you barely have time for yourself? Perhaps a better option is to start with two or three days and, if you feel you can, increase the frequency later. The idea is that your goals don’t overwhelm you, but motivate you.
Choose three to five maximum resolutions. This will allow you to focus and increase your chances of success.
Plan: Break your goals into small steps.
A big resolution can feel intimidating if you don’t know where to start. That’s why it’s best to break it down into smaller tasks. If your goal is to read 12 books in 2025, don’t focus on the total number, but rather on reading one book a month or even one chapter a day.
Think about what you need to do each week or each month to get closer to your goal. Having a plan helps you stay on track and also helps you celebrate the small accomplishments along the way.
Track your progress
Keeping track of how you’re doing with your goals is key. It can be something as simple as crossing off days on a calendar, using an app, or writing in a journal. Not only does this help you stay organized, but it also gives you a motivational boost by seeing how you’re progressing.
If you notice that you are deviating, that’s okay. The idea is not to punish yourself, but to adjust the plan and move forward. For example, if you wanted to save a fixed amount each month but an unexpected expense got in the way, adjust the goal for the following months instead of abandoning it.
Surround yourself with support
Sharing your goals with trusted friends or family members can make all the difference. When someone else knows what you’re trying to accomplish, you’re more likely to stay committed. Plus, having moral support (and maybe a little push when you need it) is invaluable.
If your resolution includes something like taking up running or learning a language, you can also join a group or find a partner who shares your interests. Doing it in community is always more fun.
Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small
It’s important to recognize your efforts, even when the progress is small. Every step counts. If you managed to complete a month of walking three times a week, treat yourself: maybe a special dinner or that book you’ve been meaning to buy. Celebrating helps you stay motivated and focused on what’s next.
Don’t beat yourself up over setbacks
No one is perfect, and setbacks are normal. If at any point you feel you’ve strayed, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, reflect on what happened and adjust your plan if necessary. The important thing is to pick yourself up and move forward. Remember, one mistake doesn’t define all the effort you’ve put in.
Some examples of realistic resolutions
In case you need inspiration, here are some examples of achievable goals for 2025:
- Finances: Save 10% of your monthly income.
- Health: Drink two liters of water a day.
- Learning: Take an online course in something you are passionate about.
- Relationships: Call a friend or family member every week to keep in touch.
- Wellness: Spend 10 minutes a day meditating or writing.
Conclusion: Make 2025 Your Year!
At the end of the day, resolutions aren’t about changing who you are, they’re about working to be the best version of yourself. With clear goals, a good plan and a little patience, 2025 can be the year you achieve great things. Remember that every little step counts and that you are doing this for you. You can do anything!
