Happy 2025! Forget the Big Resolutions!

Ah, New Year’s. A time when we all vow to become new versions of ourselves—fitter, healthier, wealthier, and just generally better. But if you’re like most people, those big, bold resolutions tend to fizzle out by February (or even sooner). In fact, studies show that about 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. It is a running joke in our house to avoid the YMCA in January because of the crowds, knowing that it will be much different in February! So what’s the deal—should we just stop trying?

Well, here’s the thing: change of any sort is almost never about taking giant leaps. It’s about inching forward, one tiny step at a time. Think of it like an inchworm. Have you ever watched one of those little guys? He doesn’t try to leap across the yard in one go. Nope. He takes tiny, steady steps, inching his way forward, and before you know it he’s made serious progress.

So instead of promising yourself you’ll lose 50 pounds or run a marathon in a month (both noble but, let’s be honest, unlikely), how about focusing on small, sustainable changes? Maybe it’s drinking one more glass of water a day, taking a short walk after dinner, using the steps at work instead of the elevator. Little things. Baby steps.

Here’s the kicker: small changes not only stick longer, but they also feel a lot less daunting. So this year, don’t aim for the moon—just aim for a few healthy, manageable steps. Trust me, you’ll end up farther ahead than if you’d tried to leap your way through the year.

This post was inspired by seeing an inchworm in my office yesterday. I eventually went to YouTube, as one does, and found this short video. I watched it just for fun (and you should too!) but was struck by two little lessons it reminded me of. First, as you make your tiny steps forward in 2025, remember to look around and notice the steps you are making. And two, take those tiny steps with others when you can.

Happy New Year, and here’s to making those tiny, mighty changes that add up!

Dan