Why New Year's Resolutions Fail: The Science & How to Make Them Stick

• Over 90% of New Year's resolutions are abandoned quickly, often due to overly ambitious goals and viewing them as chores.
• Experts like Terri Bly and Katy Milkman explain that humans aren't wired for "big, sweeping changes" and prefer enjoyable paths over efficient ones.
• Reasons for failure include discomfort with change, lack of clarity on "why" the change is desired, and internal resistance.
• To succeed, make resolutions specific, realistic, and positive, avoiding absolute terms like "never."
• Implement "habit stacking" by linking new behaviors to existing routines for better adherence, as suggested by Emma Jeffreys.

Why It Matters: Most resolutions fail due to ambition; succeed by making them specific, enjoyable, and integrating into routines.