At the beginning of each new year, people all over the world make resolutions – and hope to stay on track to pursue them.
Acording to history.com, the tradition was started by the Babylonians about 4,000 years ago in mid-March when they celebrated the spring harvest of barley called Atku.
Today, every Jan 1, about 38 percent of U.S. adults set resolutions, with ages 18-34 participating the most. Among them, health-related resolutions are the most popular, with a frequency of about 70 percent.
“I want to start working out with a healthy mindset, and not a destructive one,” said Johany Padilla, of Colusa. “I would start with finding good music that gives you adrenaline and motivation. Podcasts help pass the time as well. I would also look into bringing a buddy; friends are always great to have when starting something new, especially when it can be nerve wracking.”
According to statistics, just 9 percent of resolutions are kept throughout the year, with 23 percent of people quitting them by the first week. Another 43 percent are expected to give up their goals by February, according to the Scientific American.
They say failure is largely due to timing because it’s easy to give up on a goal that’s rushed and not given priority.
According to Health Beat, the secret to success is relatively simple: make sure your goals for the new year are specific, well-paced, and important.
“My resolutions are to learn a new language and read more,” said college freshman Jaspreet Shoker.
Self-improvement is a large commitment during any season, and whether the goal for the new year is fitness or characteristic oriented, Colusa County residents believe there is always room for growth.
“My resolutions are to be healthier, travel more, and spend more time taking my girls to different events,” said Colusa Unified Career Technician Lui Grimmer.
“My New Year’s resolutions are to spend more time with family and friends, get out of my comfort zone, try new things, and become more organized,” said Lylah Barrett, a freshman in high school.
After a year of record inflation, people are also hoping 2023 will be a better year for their money, with 20 percent of people confident they will keep their financial resolutions.
“I want to eat healthier – and stop spending money on things I don’t need,” Kaylin Morris said.
Resolutions should also be personal, including picking something that you care about or are interested in.
“I want to be more positive and have a clearer mindset,” Elyse Silva said. ■