Why our New Year’s resolutions fail.
Statistically, 80% or more of New Year’s resolutions die on the vine during January. We pick out a goal that seems right, and make a plan to achieve it, but end up quitting before the race is done – sometimes before it really started. Why is that? What is wrong with us as a species that keeps us from the change we desire?
Plenty. But it mostly boils down to ego and self will.
Mostly, it’s the reason we choose a certain goal. Wanting to put on 20 pounds of muscle or fit into a size 6 slacks are, while usually doable goals, frequently are designed to meet the expectations of others. Advertising and the celebrity culture we are surrounded by feeds us false and often unobtainable ideals. The Bible refers this to idol worship, and is pretty much a sin. You might want to crack open the Good Book and check me on this.
When we choose goals that align our will with God’s will (not trying to do the “ask Him to do my wishes” thing), there comes a source of unlimited power to succeed. So, what is God’s Will? Great question, that many of us, even long-time church-attending Christians, need to be reminded of.
God’s will for us is to recognize Jesus as His Son, follow him into a life in Christ, and to follow two simple commandments:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your mind…[and]…love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22: 37-39
Him & Them
Pretty much everything else is man-made idols and bound to fail to satisfy the hole in your heart that needs filling. Getting in shape, or moving toward better health are both good things that God can bless. When the desire to do so becomes an obsession, or distracts you from those two commandments, then… not so much. In the end, it is about intent. God knows the reasons behind our actions, so getting our heart right, and asking for His will to be done in our life, is always the correct first step.
Any resolution that starts with “If it is your will God…” is far more likely to succeed. Go ahead and start eating better, or reading the 100 greatest books of all time, or prepare yourself to peak Everest, but never ever forget to put Him & Them first.
Then you have a fighting chance.
Peace,
Don
