Are you among the 31% of Americans who made New Year’s resolutions for 2026? How are they going so far? We’ll talk about how this tradition started, what your fellow citizens are resolving for the new year, and how your EAP can help you make your plans for self-improvement a reality. .
New Year’s resolutions may seem like a modern practice fueled by gyms and self-help books, but the tradition goes back more than 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia. During a spring festival honoring the new agricultural year, people made promises to their gods, such as repaying debts or returning borrowed items. These resolutions weren’t about self-improvement as much as moral responsibility and social order. Keeping them was believed to bring good fortune in the year ahead. Centuries later, the ancient Romans adapted the tradition when they introduced the January calendar. The month was named after Janus, the two-faced god who looked both backward and forward. Romans used the start of the year to reflect on past behavior and to resolve to do better in the new year, particularly in matters of honesty, loyalty, and civic duty. In other words, resolutions were about becoming better citizens and pleasing the gods.
It wasn’t until the 19th and 20th centuries that New Year’s resolutions became more personal, self-focused, and growth-oriented. As psychology, productivity culture, and wellness movements gained influence, resolutions evolved into goals for health, finances, and success. Today, about a third of us make resolutions for the New Year,
To learn more about what people are resolving in 2026, YouGov conducted a poll. See: What are Americans’ New Year’s resolutions for 2026? Here’s a snapshot of the top 25 resolutions:
Making Those New Year’s Resolutions Stick
Despite the best intentions, typically only about 10% of those who make resolutions keep them through the entire year. When resolutions are too big, too ambitious, or too vague, they tend to lose momentum. To keep momentum, start with structure and a plan. A few proven strategies include:
- Starting small. Break big goals into manageable steps.
- Being specific. “Learn a new skill” becomes more attainable as “Complete one online course each month.”
- Tracking progress. Celebrate small wins to create momentum.
- Asking for support. A coach, counselor, or mentor can provide guidance and accountability.
- Staying flexible. Setbacks aren’t failures; they’re part of growth.
Tap into your EAP’s services for help in attaining your goals. EAP services are designed to support growth in every area of life:
- Counseling and telephonic coaching help you build resilience, develop healthier habits, and navigate challenges along the way.
- Training & development courses covering hundreds of topics, from communication and stress management to leadership and personal productivity.
- Wellness and lifestyle resources help you stay on track with physical and emotional well-being.
- Financial tools and coaching to build confidence around budgeting, saving, and planning.