The Problem with New Year's Resolutions: Why You Shouldn't Be So Hard On Yourself

The Greatness Guide | 21st December

Dec 20, 2024

As the New Year approaches, the buzz around resolutions begins again. Promises to exercise more, eat better, save money, or finally tackle that long-overdue dream often dominate our thoughts. And while resolutions can be a helpful way to reflect and set intentions, they can also carry an invisible weight—the pressure to transform overnight into the “perfect” version of ourselves.

Here’s the truth: change doesn’t happen in one leap, and life doesn’t reset at midnight on January 1st. Resolutions are powerful because they remind us that growth is possible, but they’re not meant to be a yardstick for self-criticism. Too often, we set the bar so high that the moment we falter, we give up entirely, telling ourselves we’ve “failed.”

But what if this year, we approached resolutions with more compassion? What if, instead of striving for perfection, we focused on progress? Growth isn’t linear—it’s messy and full of detours, and that’s okay. It’s not about how many days you stick to your plan but about the commitment to keep going, even if you stumble along the way.

The New Year is a chance to pause, reflect, and begin again—not with harsh expectations but with gentle determination. Celebrate the small wins, adjust when needed, and remember that every step forward is a step toward the life you want to create.

Be kind to yourself. Resolutions aren’t about proving your worth—they’re about honouring your potential. And that, more than anything, is worth celebrating.

Unlock Exclusive Content: My Personal, Opinionated Pieces Await

Behind the paywall is where I share my most personal and unfiltered thoughts—the content closest to my heart. It’s where I dive deep into topics that matter to me, with raw vulnerability and bold opinions.

Why Subscribe?

Subscribing gives you access to reflections and stories I don’t share anywhere else—designed to challenge perspectives, spark conversations, and inspire growth. If you’ve ever wondered what I truly think, this is where you’ll find it.

New Podcast Episodes

Ready to rethink ageing? This week, Sarah Grynberg chats with Dr. Vonda Wright on thriving at any age. Discover how exercise, mindset, and strength can transform ageing into an opportunity for vitality and reinvention. Tune in for tips on longevity, menopause, and staying energised.

sarahgrynberg