The clock strikes midnight, and there you are, full of hope (and a little too much champagne), promising yourself that this is the year you’ll finally stick to your New Year’s resolutions. Fast forward to February, and those goals have quietly slipped into the “well, I tried” folder. Sound familiar?

You’re not alone. Research shows that about 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by the second week of February. But here’s the thing: it’s not because you’re lazy or lack willpower. It’s because most resolutions are set up to fail from the start.

Let’s break down why this happens and, more importantly, what you can do to set yourself up for success.

Why Resolutions Fail

1. They’re Too Vague. Saying, “I want to get fit,” or “I’ll save more money,” sounds great, but it’s about as actionable as telling a toddler to “just sit still.” Without specifics, it’s hard to know where to start—or how to keep going.
2. They Focus on Outcomes, Not Actions. Most resolutions are built around big, shiny end results: lose 20 pounds, run a marathon, buy a house. The problem? These outcomes feel overwhelming and far away. When progress is slow, motivation tanks.
3. They Lack a Plan. Resolutions often skip the critical step of figuring out how you’re going to achieve them. Without a roadmap, it’s easy to get lost—or give up altogether.
4. All-or-Nothing Thinking. Miss one workout? Eat a slice of cake? Suddenly, it feels like you’ve failed entirely. Perfectionism kills progress faster than you can say, “I’ll start again next Monday.”

Enter Process-Based Goals

If resolutions are the sprinters of goal setting, process-based goals are the marathon runners. They focus on the how instead of the what. Instead of obsessing over an end result, process-based goals emphasize the daily actions that lead to long-term success.

Here’s why they’re better:

1. They’re Actionable. Process-based goals break things down into small, manageable steps. For example, instead of “I want to lose 20 pounds,” you might aim to meal prep twice a week or go for a 30-minute walk daily.
2. They Build Habits. By focusing on actions, you’re creating routines that become second nature. Those habits will carry you further than sheer motivation ever could.
3. They Keep You Motivated. Progress feels more tangible when you’re checking off daily or weekly actions. It’s the difference between “I’ll save $10,000 this year” and “I’ll set aside $200 every Friday.”
4. They’re Flexible. Life happens. Process-based goals give you room to adapt without throwing in the towel. Miss a day? No problem. You can pick right back up without losing momentum.

How to Set Process-Based Goals

1. Start Small: Choose one or two actions to focus on. Small wins build confidence and momentum.
2. Be Specific: Instead of “I’ll exercise more,” try “I’ll attend three CrossFit classes each week.”
3. Track Your Progress: Use a habit tracker, journal, or app to keep tabs on your actions. Seeing your streak can be incredibly motivating.
4. Celebrate the Wins: Give yourself credit for sticking to the process, even if the big results aren’t immediate. Progress is progress.

Stop Wondering Why Your Resolutions Fail

If you’re tired of resolutions that fizzle out and want a proven strategy for making goals stick, I’ve got you covered. My free mini ebook, “Setting Goals That Actually Stick,” walks you through creating specific, actionable goals and building lasting habits.

Click here to get your free copy.

Let’s make this year the one where you finally turn your dreams into reality—one small, powerful step at a time.