The custom of making New Year’s resolutions has been around for thousands of years, but it hasn’t always looked the way it does today.
Most sources credit the ancient Babylonians as the first people to make New Year’s resolutions, some 4,000 years ago. In 2000 B.C., the Babylonians celebrated the New Year during a 12-day festival called Akitu. The festival was the start of farming season to plant crops, crown their king, and make promises to pay their debts. One common resolution was the return of borrowed farm equipment.
Ancient Romans adopted the tradition of resolutions. The timing shifted with the Julian calendar in 46 B.C., which declared January 1as the start of the new year.
During the Middle Ages, Medieval knights renewed their vow to chivalry by placing their hands on a peacock. The vow was made as a resolution to maintain their knightly values.
Resolutions in the early 1900s were more religious/spiritual, reflecting a desire to develop stronger moral character, a stronger work ethic, and more restraint in the face of earthly pleasures.
Today, resolutions have evolved to mainly general self-improvement goals reflecting status, financial wealth, responsibility, and self-discipline.
When choosing New Year’s resolutions, chose goals that are specific, achievable, personally meaningful, and measurable. You could even break them down into smaller steps, focus on a few key areas you want to improve, and ensure they align with your values and lifestyle.
- Be realistic: Don’t set yourself up for failure by choosing overly ambitious goals.
- Focus on one or two key areas: Trying to change too much at once can be overwhelming.
- Make them specific: Instead of “eat healthier,” try “replace sugary drinks with water”.
- Set measurable goals: This allows you to track progress and stay motivated.
- Break down large goals into smaller steps: This makes them seem less daunting and easier to achieve.
- Consider your values: Choose resolutions that align with what’s important to you.
- Find an accountability partner: Share your resolutions with a friend or family member to help you stay on track.
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