New Year Resolutions: 50 Ideas You'll Actually Keep

Most resolutions fail because they're too big or too vague. 'Get fit' fizzles out by February; 'walk for 20 minutes after lunch' has a fighting chance.

Pick one or two from the list below, make them specific, and tell someone. That's most of the secret.

Health and fitness

  • Walk 20 minutes a day.
  • Drink a glass of water before every coffee.
  • Try one new exercise class a month.
  • Go to bed 30 minutes earlier.
  • Cook one new healthy recipe a week.

Wellbeing

  • Keep a gratitude journal.
  • Have one phone-free evening a week.
  • Read 12 books this year.
  • Spend time outdoors every weekend.
  • Learn to say no.

Money

  • Save a fixed amount every payday.
  • Cancel subscriptions you don't use.
  • Have a no-spend weekend each month.
  • Start a Christmas savings pot in January.

Relationships

  • Call a friend or relative every week.
  • Plan a monthly date night.
  • Send more cards and letters.
  • Remember everyone's birthdays.

Fun

  • Learn a new skill or language.
  • Visit somewhere new every month.
  • Host a games or quiz night.
  • Try a new hobby like pottery or running.

Key things to remember

  • Make it specific and measurable.
  • Start smaller than you think.
  • Track progress somewhere visible.

Frequently asked questions

What are good new year resolutions?

Small, specific ones: walk 20 minutes daily, save a set amount every payday, read a book a month, or call a friend weekly.

How do you keep a new year resolution?

Make it specific, start small, track it and tell someone. Missing one day isn't failing - just restart.

What is a good example of new year resolution ideas?

"Walk 20 minutes a day." is one of 22 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

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