What are New Year's Resolutions?

There is an old saying that a new broom sweeps clean. The first day of a new year also seems like an ideal time to sweep away one's past and start fresh. Many people form New Year's resolutions as part of their New Year's Day holiday ritual. These resolutions are usually vows or promises made on 1 January that address a number of goals for personal improvement. They often run the gamut from health issues to professional development to social improvements.

One of the most common New Year's resolutions is a vow to lose weight. Gyms and fitness centers across the world anticipate a surge in membership during the months of January and February, as millions of people make honest efforts to honor their pledges. Along with weight loss and body resculpting, many people also vow to improve their eating habits. Sales of whole or health foods tend to spike during the first few months of the year as diet trends shift. Many gym and health food store owners realize, however, that some resolutions may not survive until June.

Other New Year's resolutions address professional or financial goals. Some people vow to search for a better job or improve the conditions of the one they already have. Many people make resolutions to be more diligent about their personal bookkeeping, or to find additional sources of income during the upcoming year. Some may resolve to form a budget and live within their means instead of adding more debt.

People also set goals around social or spiritual improvements. Many people resolve to treat their spouses with more respect, or to be more sociable around others. Some promise to become more involved in their religious expressions or to become more tolerant of others. Those involving personal or spiritual growth can often be shared with spouses or other family members as a way to boost each other's level of commitment.

Some New Year's resolutions concern the elimination or acknowledgment of bad personal habits. Many people vow to quit smoking cigarettes or consuming alcohol in the new year. Others may attempt to control their tempers or curb their use of foul language. Making resolutions is a way for people to acknowledge some negative aspects of their lives and make a concrete promise to address those issues during the upcoming year.