Beyond 'New Year, New You': Crafting Resolutions That Actually Stick in the Beehive State

Hey there, Utah! As we stand on the brink of 2026, you might be feeling that familiar mix of hope and pressure that comes with the New Year. Maybe you're eyeing those running shoes, thinking about finally tackling that Wasatch peak, or considering a career pivot faster than a snowboarder at Brighton.

But before you go all in on another year of "New Year, New You" (spoiler alert: you're already pretty great), let's talk about how to set resolutions that actually stick and align with who you truly are. After all, the best changes come from nurturing your authentic self, not trying to become someone else entirely.

10 Ways to Set Authentic Resolutions for 2026

1. Reflect Before You Project Take stock of where you are before deciding where to go.

Try this: Spend an afternoon at a peaceful spot like Memory Grove Park. Reflect on what worked well this year, what didn't, and what you'd like to change.

1. Align with Your Values Make sure your goals resonate with what truly matters to you.

Try this: Write down your top 5 values. Then, for each resolution you're considering, ask yourself: "Does this align with my values?"

1. Set Intentions, Not Just Outcomes Focus on how you want to feel, not just what you want to achieve.

Try this: Instead of "lose 20 pounds," try "feel energized and confident in my body." This allows for a more holistic approach to your goal.

1. Make it Utah-Specific Leverage our state's unique offerings in your resolutions.

Try this: If your goal is to be more active, commit to trying a new Utah trail each month. Or if you want to learn something new, consider taking a class at the University of Utah's Lifelong Learning program.

1. Break it Down Make your resolutions manageable by breaking them into smaller steps.

Try this: If your goal is to ski all of Utah's resorts, start by planning your first trip. Small wins build momentum.

1. Create Accountability Share your goals with someone who will support and encourage you.

Try this: Find a resolution buddy. Meet up for coffee at Publik once a month to check in on your progress and offer mutual support.

1. Build in Flexibility Life happens. Make sure your resolutions can adapt.

Try this: Instead of rigid rules, set guidelines. For example, "I'll aim to cook at home more often" instead of "I'll never eat out."

1. Practice Self-Compassion Remember, progress isn't always linear.

Try this: Write yourself a compassionate letter to read when you face setbacks. Remind yourself that stumbles are part of the journey.

1. Celebrate Small Wins Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.

Try this: Keep a "wins jar." Write down your achievements, big and small, and add them to the jar. Read through them when you need a motivation boost.

1. Review and Adjust Regularly Your resolutions should evolve as you do.

Try this: Set a quarterly "resolution review" date with yourself. Maybe the first Sunday of each quarter, you head to your favorite spot (we love the Roof Restaurant for its view of the city) for a check-in session.

Remember, the goal of resolutions isn't to transform into a completely different person. It's about growing into the best version of yourself. By setting authentic, value-aligned goals, you're more likely to stick with them and find genuine fulfillment in the process.

[Call to Action: Want to dive deeper into setting meaningful resolutions for 2026? Let's chat about it. Schedule a session and we'll work on creating goals that align with your values and support your overall well-being.]