Why Resolutions Fail — And What Actually Works

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Andy Wyss

Mental Health

“This Is The Year”

Tired of resolutions that fizzle out? Discover why small, Christ-centered goals and practical steps lead to lasting change. Learn how to set yourself up for success with tips, examples, and Biblical encouragement. Ready to turn intentions into action?

The Resolution Trap

The New Year often brings a flurry of resolutions — promises to hit the gym, eat better, quit smoking, or save more money. But let’s be honest: how many of last year’s resolutions stuck? How many gym memberships went unused? How many times did you say, “This is the year,” and really mean it?

On the flip side, some people skip resolutions altogether, saying, “I never keep them, so why bother?” It’s a fair question: what’s the point?

Goals, Not Resolutions

What if, instead of resolutions, you set small, attainable goals that build toward bigger changes? Think of them as lifestyle habits rather than temporary fixes. For example:

Eating healthy instead of “going on a diet.”
Enjoying movement like hiking or dancing — instead of forcing yourself to “exercise.”
Reading one chapter of Scripture daily instead of saying, “I’ll read the whole Bible this year.”
Saving $25 a week instead of declaring, “I’ll save thousands.”

Words matter, but action matters more. Success starts with choices and preparation. If you want to eat healthy, don’t stock your pantry with cookies. If you want to save money, start by understanding your spending habits.

Practical Tips For Setting Goals That Stick

Start Small – Break big goals into bite-sized steps. Instead of “get fit,” start with “walk 10 minutes a day.”
Be Specific – Vague goals fail. Instead of “eat better,” try “add one vegetable to every meal.”
Make Them Measurable – Track progress. Use a journal or an app to see how far you’ve come.
Attach to Habits – Pair new goals with existing routines. Example: Pray while making your morning coffee.
Celebrate Wins – Reward yourself for progress, not perfection.
Stay Accountable – Share your goals with a friend or counselor for encouragement and support.
Focus on Grace, Not Guilt – If you stumble, don’t quit. God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Today’s world offers more tools than ever — apps for budgeting, wearable fitness trackers, mental health platforms — but technology alone won’t change your life. You need a plan, accountability, and sometimes, professional guidance.

How We Can Help

At Lutheran Family Service, we go beyond listening. Our counselors:

Assign practical homework.
Refer you to trusted professionals (physicians, financial planners, dietitians).
Help you identify patterns and set realistic goals.

For example, if you’re frustrated at work, we’ll explore career options and create actionable steps. If you’re struggling with communication in your relationship, we’ll help you build skills—and connect you with financial experts if money stress is part of the problem.

A Christ-Centered Foundation

As an LCMS ministry, we believe true and lasting change begins with Christ at the center. Scripture reminds us in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Goals are important, but they are most meaningful when aligned with God’s will for your life. Our counselors integrate Biblical principles with practical strategies, offering hope that is rooted in the Gospel. Change isn’t just about self-improvement—it’s about living out your calling as a child of God.

Your Year Starts Now

Change doesn’t have to take forever. With the right tools and support, you can see progress faster than you think. If you’re ready to turn intentions into action, contact us today through our web form here.

If you or someone you know would benefit from Christ-centered mental health counseling, refer to or contact us today.

Call: 515-573-3138
Email: [email protected]
Web Form: http://lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact/

Lutheran Family Service walks with those experiencing difficult times through mental health counseling, marriage counseling, crisis pregnancy counseling, and adoption services.