As we look to the new year, many are considering what they want from the new year.
Some conversations talk about resolutions. Others focus on goals. Even others talk about aims.
So, what is the difference?
With a bit of research, here’s what I’ve found:
Resolutions: Setting the Intention
New Year’s resolutions often take the form of personal commitments to make positive changes.
They are like the compass that sets your direction for the year. Resolutions capture the spirit of change and self-improvement. However, they are sometimes criticized for lacking specificity and actionable steps.
For example, “I resolve to prioritize self-care and well-being in the coming year.”
Goals: The Roadmap to Success
Unlike resolutions, goals are more concrete and measurable.
They serve as the milestones on your journey toward self-improvement.
Setting specific, achievable, and time-bound goals can provide a roadmap.
Goals help us track progress and celebrate successes along the way.
For example: “My goal is to exercise at least three times a week for 30 minutes throughout the year.”
Aims: The Big Picture
Aims provide a broader, overarching vision of what we want to achieve.
They are the guiding principles that give purpose to resolutions and goals.
Aims provide context and meaning.
This helps us stay motivated even when faced with challenges.
For example, “My aim for the year is to foster a healthier lifestyle by cultivating habits that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”
My Perspective
When it comes to personal development, any of these approaches work to set plans for the year.
The key is what you do with the resolution, goal or aim.
Next week, we’ll focus on how to turn these intentions into reality.
Your Turn
Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
Do you prefer goals or aims?
What do you see as the challenges with all these approaches?